Island Dolphin Care
Island Dolphin Care is a therapy and learning facility in Key Largo built around a natural lagoon, aquariums, touch tanks, and maintained gardens. The center houses eight bottlenose dolphins that require lifelong care and offers personalized programs to help people strengthen themselves and experience joy.
The facility was founded in 1997 by Deena Hoagland after her son showed improvement following a stroke when he interacted with a dolphin. This founding moment sparked the development of specialized therapy programs that now benefit children, families, and veterans.
The facility was created by Deena Hoagland after witnessing her son's recovery through dolphin contact, establishing a place where meaningful human-animal connections happen daily. Visitors see how these encounters provide emotional support and hope to families, veterans, and children facing life challenges.
The facility operates daily from early morning until late afternoon and offers tours, school programs, and specialized therapy sessions. The location is accessible for wheelchairs and visitors with mobility aids, with ramps and helpful staff who welcome everyone.
The facility offers yoga sessions twice weekly beside the lagoon where visitors can stretch and breathe while watching dolphins swim nearby. This calm offering combines relaxation, nature, and animal observation in an uncommon way.
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