About me: I’ve always had a great respect for animals, as a child this was very evident to those who knew me best. Now at 29, I have the pleasure to work with some of the most amazing creatures on the planet. In the 7 years that I’ve worked as a Marine Mammal Trainer I’ve shared many wonderful relationships with many species of animals including beluga whales, orcas, seals, sea lions, dolphins and walruses. One particular relationship has garnered much attention…and this is our story.
In 2004, Smooshi, a then 18 month old baby walrus, arrived at Marineland from Russia weighing approximately 198lbs. It was my responsibility to make the transition to her new home a comfortable one. We would spend many hours playing, eating…even napping together, and an immediate bond was established. It was soon recognized that Smooshi was particularly fond of me, in fact she would only accept food from me. Soon I was working 7 days a week to accommodate her finicky ways. Co-workers were amazed at just how powerful our bond had become, but no one would have expected what was to come next. One day while playing with my new walrus friend, a female co-worker/friend (Dawn) approached to join in the fun. Smooshi seemed uninterested in the girl, which prompted Dawn to get a little closer. Smooshi became very jealous and immediately began to “push” Dawn away, barking frantically as if to say “GET AWAY FROM HIM”.
Fast forward to today (3 years and 600lbs later) and the bond remains unchanged. Smooshi will follow me absolutely anywhere often looking up to me for approval. We often take walks around the park or just play in the snow. This is a unique bond that is sure to amaze and touch you… it truly is “something you gotta see”.
Who I'd like to meet: Anyone who is interested in this story can feel free to add me to their list. I will keep the site current and update it as things develop. If you're not a myspace member you can e-mail me any questions you have at www.smooshiandphil@hotmail.com
Please check out my blog for stories, opinions, and links to conservation/animal related sites and feel free to send me links if you know of any that may contribute to the awareness of these causes.
are you excited for addy to move?i wasnt for keifer but i guess yesterday he went to go visit and refused to back to the 2s and stayed with sharen the hole day! i think addy will do fine because she is very sassy so the bigger kids wont pick on her:)she moves monday? you gonna be able to help her out? did you ever start on them online survey things i told you about? i hope you did, i just another check, this was for $237 from 2 weeks ago. if you didn't yet, pshhh, get on it; i guess you'll have to type the link into internet explorer or whatever, but here it is again:
omg! that day that we got to come and see all the animals was so much fun!, it totally made up for not going to the drive in! and the best part was when buttercup burbed in my dads face lol
Hey there, I am amazed by the strong relationship built between you and Smooshi! I know similar cases happen on other animals and people but never a walrus. Take good care of her.
Thanks for the add! :) I visited Marineland on July 7th and loved it! I hadn't heard anything about this incredible story though until after I got home and saw a piece on you guys on Inside Edition! You are so lucky! Give Smooshi a fish for me!
HI PHIL AND SMOOSHI: I PICK A SPEICAL ANGEL CARD TO DO WITH SMOOSHI:
AND HERE WHAT THE CARD SAID,
YOUR INTUITION IS YOUR LINK TO YOUR GUARDIAN ANGEL AND GUIDES LEARN TO USE IT AND IT WILL SHINE LIKE THE BRIGHTNESS OF THE SUN . THIS MITE SOUND FUNNY BUT I HAVE A FEELING THAT SMOOSH IS WATCHING OVER YOU
How far in advance do you plan who will be in what show? I'm bringing my brother to Marineland when he comes to visit and wondered if Smooshi will be in the show! Thanks, Phil.
Hi, thanks for adding me. I saw your story on tv and thought it was so sweet. You've got one smart little girl there! I hope I can make it up to Marineland and see her sometime.
Thanks for the add! I saw your story in the airport last month. I come from a conservationist kind of family, so I respect the work you do and was taken with Smooshi (isn't everyone?).
