Recently, a photo capturing the moment a dog affectionately kissed a dolphin has gone viral on Twitter with 1.3 million likes and more than 242,000 shares.
Photo of a kiss between a dog and a dolphin has gone viral on Twitter.
Notably, this is not the only affectionate moment between these two animals of different species. It is known that the pair have been friends since childhood and up to now, this friendship has lasted for 8 years.
Gunner – Golden Retriever dog first met his Delta dolphin friend when he was only 8 weeks old at the Florida Dolphin Research Center. Unlike other active dogs, Gunner did not run around but just lay still watching the dolphins swim.
Attracted by Gunner’s calm demeanor, Delta, a friendly dolphin, immediately approached to get acquainted and even brought toys to play with Gunner.
In response to Delta’s goodwill, Gunner quickly reciprocated and learned to play with his dolphin friend by grabbing the toys he was given.
8-week-old Gunner and 4-year-old Delta became best friends from the first time they met.
Marie Blanton, a senior trainer at the center and Gunner’s owner, said she and her colleagues have been trying to build a close relationship with the dolphins to study their personalities. Therefore, she wants to expose these dolphins to as many different things as possible, including the 8-week-old puppy that accompanies her to work every day.
Whenever they meet, Gunner and Delta are inseparable.
Marie Blanton said: “The first time I brought Gunner to the port I thought he would bark loudly or show excitement when he saw the dolphins but he did the opposite. He lay down and watched and was very calm. That’s what caught Delta’s attention.”
After that first meeting, every time Marie Blanton brought Gunner, Delta the dolphin would appear at the dock immediately with his toys. The two animals began to rejoice and play together.
The two friends were delighted to see each other.
And when he was tired, Gunner would lie on the dock watching Delta play.
Later, the time Gunner followed his owner to work gradually shortened. He only came to the center a few times a month, but their friendship never diminished.
Now, at eight years old, Gunner and Delta are 12, their friendship remains strong, even though they don’t see each other often. Marie Blanton says the pair recognize each other immediately, and Delta is still the first dolphin to greet Gunner.
Dolphins are among the most intelligent animals and are loved by humans for their friendly appearance and mischievous attitude. Meanwhile, dogs are always considered a loyal friend of humans. The lasting friendship of these two seemingly unrelated animals is the perfect proof that friendship has no boundaries. As long as you have a sincere heart, you will also be reciprocated with precious feelings.
* Theo Insider, Animal Channel