The Dolphin Doctor: A Pioneering Veterinarian Remembers the Extra-Ordinary Dolphin That Inspired His Career

In the 1960s, the U.S. Navy sponsored Sealab, a project that would put human ""acquanauts'' in an undersea habitat for long periods of time. Part of the project entailed training dolphins to assist divers by carrying tools and messages, and Ridgeway, two years out of veterinary school, was appointed to work full time with the animals. His chief student and lab partner was an Atlantic bottlenose dolphin, Tuffy, who became the first of the species to work with people in open waters. At the start, Tuffy was not a promising subject; he came to Point Magu Naval Base in California with anemia, ulcers and a bad temper. Under Ridgeway's care, however, his health improved, and after a young research assistant gained his trust Tuffy was ready for training. In addition to his delightful anecdotes about Tuffy, Ridgeway shows us the progress scientists have made in understanding dolphin physiology and improving medical care for captive animals. He has written a charming story with plenty of action, satisfying for both adventure and animal lovers. (August)