The Miami Dolphins have ended their partnership with SeaWorld

Amid growing controversy regarding the way SeaWorld treats their animals and trainers, the Miami Dolphins have ended their partnership with SeaWorld. Under the agreement, which expires in March, season ticket holders for the Dolphins were given special perks inside the park, ticket discounts and special events. It also included a sweepstakes for people who registered on the Dolphins website. 

"Due to shifting business priorities of both companies, a new one will not be created," SeaWorld spokeswoman Becca Bides said in an email. "The Dolphins were great partners and we wish them well this off season."

In the wake of the documentary Blackfish, more and more of SeaWorld’s corporate partners—including Hyundai Motor America, Panama Jack, Southwest Airlines, and Virgin America—are breaking ties with the park. The company’s profits have plummeted, it has laid off hundreds of employees, and shareholders have filed lawsuits. The Dolphins are just another company to cut ties with the park.

This story was written by Matthew Cannata. Follow him on Twitter: @PhinManiacs