Discovery Cove Renews Long-Standing Certification from American Humane Society for Animal Care, Welfare and Wellbeing

Washington, D.C. (September 30, 2026)- American Humane Society, the United States' first national humane organization and the world's largest certifier of animal welfare practices, announced today that Discovery Cove, an Orlando day resort featuring unique opportunities to engage with animals, has once again renewed their long-standing certification through the American Humane Certified™ program for zoos, aquariums and conservation centers. Discovery Cove has been certified since 2017.

"We are proud to continue to recognize Discovery Cove as an American Humane Certified™ facility," said Dr. Robin Ganzert, President and CEO of American Humane Society. "Zoos, aquariums, and conservation parks around the world play an important role in the animal welfare movement, and this renewed certification further signifies Discovery Cove as a leader in aquatic care and conservation."

Discovery Cove is an exclusive, all-inclusive day resort in Orlando where guests can enjoy unique up-close animal encounters, including swimming with dolphins, snorkeling with thousands of tropical fish and rays, and hand-feeding exotic birds.

"We're honored to once again earn American Humane Certified™ recognition, which reflects the extraordinary dedication of our animal care teams and the high standards we uphold every day," said Brad Gilmour, President of Discovery Cove. "Caring for the animals who call Discovery Cove home is at the heart of who we are, and that commitment extends well beyond our park through our ongoing efforts to protect animals and their habitats. This renewed certification reinforces our responsibility to provide exceptional care while inspiring our guests to appreciate and help conserve the natural world."

Rigorous Certification Standards:

To continue to be recognized as American Humane Certified, Discovery Cove passed a rigorous independent assessment that reviewed the well-being of animals in its care. The unique process is guided by the latest science and best practices and is informed by respected veterinarians and experts in the fields of animal welfare, animal science, zoology and ethics who have decades of experience in protecting animals.

The independent validation process provides confidence that the institution is meeting a high benchmark of care. The process included an onsite audit that assesses animal welfare. Factors considered during the audit include, but are not limited to, housing, nutrition, water quality, lighting, shade, sound, activity levels and the training of staff who are interacting with the animals. The benchmarks are species-specific.

About American Humane Society:

American Humane Society is the United States' first national humane organization and the world's largest certifier of animal welfare, helping to verify the humane treatment of more than one billion animals across the globe each year. Founded in 1877, American Humane Society has been at the forefront of virtually every major advancement in the humane movement to rescue, care for and protect animals. For more information or to support our life-changing work, please visit www.AmericanHumane.org, follow us on Facebook, X and Instagram and subscribe to our channel on YouTube for the latest breaking news and features about the animals with whom we share our Earth

About Discovery Cove:

Recently named a 2026 Good Housekeeping Travel Award winner for the third consecutive year, the #1 Best Theme Park by Newsweek and ranked "Best Lazy River" in the U.S. by USA Today 10Best Readers' Choice Award. Discovery Cove® provides guests with a one-of-a-kind, all-inclusive tropical getaway. From pristine white-sand beaches and winding rivers to vibrant reefs, visitors can relax and connect with nature while enjoying unlimited food, drinks, and swim gear throughout the day. For more information, visit DiscoveryCove.com.