Update: SeaWorld Dodges Sexual Abuse Question

During today’s annual meeting of shareholders, SeaWorld dodged PETA’s question, submitted by actor and PETA Honorary Director Kate del Castillo. We had asked the company when it would stop sexually abusing and forcibly impregnating dolphins and whales and instead transfer them to seaside sanctuaries. SeaWorld deflected by claiming—despite widespread expert and industry support for sanctuaries—that a transfer would be too “risky” and did not even address the sexual abuse of dolphins.

Please see the following statement from PETA Executive Vice President Tracy Reiman:

Ignoring PETA’s question about the sexual abuse of dolphins and offering shareholders misinformation about sea sanctuaries doesn’t change the fact that SeaWorld is drugging dolphins so that they can’t fight back, impregnating them via inserted tubes, and using them and their babies in circus-style shows. The company will lose generations of compassionate customers unless it stops breeding generations of animals for lives of misery in its tanks.

PETA notes that the 60 experts on the board of The Whale Sanctuary Project have endorsed seaside sanctuaries—safe ocean coves in which captive orcas and other marine mammals who have been deprived of everything that’s natural and important to them can thrive in the sea while still receiving care, feeding, and veterinary support—and that the National Aquarium in Baltimore is creating a seaside sanctuary for the dolphins in its care.

PETA’s statement and question, which was submitted by Kate del Castillo, is available here.

SeaWorld’s response:

“One of our shareholders, PETA, has submitted a question about investments in entertainment and interactive digital technologies, as well as about seaside sanctuaries. Thank you for your question. Thank you for your long-term investment in and support for our company, we share a common passion for animals and their care. With respect to seaside sanctuaries, this question has been answered by experts, scientists, environmentalists and others who agree that sea pens are not humane. For killer whales, sea pens are risky, and would expose these animals to harmful pollutants and toxins in the water. In fact, no killer whale born in captivity has ever been successfully released into a sea pen or the wild. No one who cares for these animals would advocate for sea pens if they understood this science or the outcomes of taking such action. Foremost experts on marine mammals including dolphins and orcas reside here at SeaWorld and we care deeply about their wellbeing. We welcome people to come to our parks, see our animal care specialists, and be educated and inspired by what we know will be in their best interests for both the animals in our parks and those in the wild. With respect to investments, as you know, we have made and continue to make significant investments in rides, attractions and events and other entertainment offerings including interactive technology experiences that complement our educational and conservation oriented animal presentations and the unique animal experiences and habitats we have in our parks. The combination of these unique offerings allowed us to generate record net income and adjusted EBITA in 2019, prior to COVID-19 and amongst the strongest financial performance in the company’s history for the first quarter of 2021.”

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Dodger Stadium Knocks it Out of the Park with Vegan Dodger Dogs and More

Baseball season wouldn’t be complete without the ballpark food and drinks. Of course, there are peanuts and Cracker Jacks (which are accidentally vegan) but we can’t forget about the hot dogs, nachos, and other items you’re likely to find. Luckily, many stadiums have responded to the demands of compassionate spectators by serving animal-free fare. Dodger Stadium is no exception, with the addition of a pig-friendly version of its famous Dodger Dog. Here’s the scoop, along with more items you won’t want to miss.

Next time you’re at a game, use this guide to find vegan options at Dodger Stadium*:

*Please note that menus may change from season to season. Check with ballpark staff to find the most current availability.

Plant-Based Dodger Dogs

These Dodger Dogs can be found at concession stands across the park. They’re made with Field Roast’s Signature Stadium Dog, a delicious pea protein-based hot dog with a natural smoked flavor. The best part of choosing one of these dogs is knowing that no pigs had to die for you to enjoy it.

Beyond Burgers

Bud & Burgers serves a Beyond Burger that can be made vegan by ordering it without the cow’s milk cheese and mayo made from chicken’s eggs.

Tempeh Nachos

These vegan nachos come with citrus marinated tempeh, pico de gallo, Follow Your Heart vegan cheddar, black beans, and mashed avocado—all served in a baseball bowl.

Vegan Tacos

What is Los Angeles without tacos? These come with spicy jackfruit, Spanish slaw, pico de gallo, and vegan avocado crema on corn tortillas.

Burrito Basebowls

These hearty burrito bowls come with rice, citrus marinated tempeh, black beans, guacamole, pico de gallo, and crispy tortilla strips. Request it with spicy salsa for an extra kick.

Dole Whip

That’s right—this fruity favorite isn’t just at Disneyland! Find it at King’s Hawaiian Grill on the Left Field Plaza.

Garlic Tots

Crispy tots tossed in garlicky goodness? Yes, please!

Garlic Fries

If you’re a fan of the classics with a twist, these are for you.

Other vegan items you might find throughout the stadium:

  • Fries
  • Fruit cups
  • Peanuts
  • Potato chips
  • Salad
  • Salted pretzels
  • Veggies with hummus cup
  • Esquites (order without mayo, cheese, and aioli)

Before or after the game, check out these local spots for more Dodger-themed goodies:

Dodgerberry Shake from Monty’s Good Burger (Echo Park location only)

Blue Warrior / Cracker Jack flavor from Yoga-urt (availability varies)


Even if you can’t make it to Dodger Stadium, you can still enjoy the experience in the comfort of your own home. If you’re having friends over to watch the game, why not serve up some vegan hot dogs or burgers? Find out more about how to go vegan:

Request Your FREE Vegan Starter Kit

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