The Equalized Enrichment Emphasis
Amy Giannobile
Bachelor of Science; Animal Behavior & Educational Psychology
Minnesota Zoological Garden


Based on the philosophy of equal enrichment for both clients and dolphins, this paper discusses methods to discover, evaluate, and maintain a balance between the needs of the animal and the needs of the client. Dolphin Assisted Therapy must be a positive experience to both the animals and the client. Topcis discussed include; examples of acceptable compromises, behavioral characteristics that constitute good dolphin candidates, implementing ethograms to measure and assess pre and post-therapy session behavior, and implementation of realistic expectations, individualized goals, and specific objectives for each dolphin to ensure environmental enrichment. Significance of the interdisciplinary team setting and collaboration to reach common goals is emphasized.


Enrichment: The act of making an event more fulfilling and rewarding resulting in both a positive experience and outcome.

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