Kimberley Walsh fans have been left 'disappointed' after the Girls Aloud star shared a rather controversial photo from her holiday in Dubai.
Kimberley, 39, posted a snap of herself and her family - husband Justin and children Bobby, six, Cole four, and four-month-old Nate - posing with bottlenose dolphins in the pool at five-star luxury resort, Atlantis The Palm hotel.
According to the hotel's website, guests "can experience a variety of programmes that provide an up-close look at these magnificent mammals and how we take care of them. Our aim is to build a life-long appreciation for marine life and encourage our guests to act on behalf of nature in the Dolphin Bay."
But followers and fans were upset by the photos, and Kimberley's decision to get involved in the 'experience'.
Advert
One follower wrote: "Definitely not a good idea. V disappointing. Do your own research on animals in captivity and then I hope you can use your platform to educate your followers wisely."
While another commented: "Hugely disappointing that someone with your status in 2021 would fund and advocate such cruelty. A quick research would have highlighted all you needed to know about such attractions are never in the best interest of the animals."
And a third said: "Oh no, those poor dolphins, unfortunately going to unfollow #emptythetanks."
"Really disappointed to see you supporting animal cruelty. Animals are not entertainment. That beautiful dolphin should not be in captivity to be exploited," added a fourth.
Advert
Meanwhile others suggested watching a number of 'insightful' documentaries, such as Blackfish and The Cove.
Animal rights organisation PETA explain how in captivity, dolphins can only swim in "endless circles" that to them are "the equivalent of bath tubs" and are "denied the opportunity to engage in almost any natural behaviour".
Atlantis - which is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and members of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) - says it is committed to delivering the highest standards of care to its 65,000 marine animals.
Advert
Tim Kelly, Managing Director & Executive Vice President of Atlantis Dubai, said: "Atlantis, Dubai is home to a dedicated expert animal care team, who work around the clock to maintain our high animal welfare standards, deliver world-class education programmes to guests and visitors, and support marine conservation.
"Achieving WAZA membership further highlights our commitment to sustainability and to doing business in ways that protect both people and planet, through the Atlantis Atlas Project.”
Tyla has reached out to Kimberley's reps and Atlantis The Palm, for comment.
Featured Image Credit: Alamy