Founded in 1984, the Dolphin Research Center is a nonprofit educational and research facility that conducts various studies for the treatment and conservation of bottlenose dolphins and sea lions. It carries research in various areas related to marine mammal cognition, communication, calf development and husbandry. The Dolphin Research Center provides dolphin-assisted play and recreational therapies for children with mental disabilities and retardations. It promotes coexistence, cooperation and communication between environment, marine mammals and humans. The facility conducts medical behavior training sessions, presentations, demonstrations, athletic activities, and educational and awareness seminars. Additionally, it operates a gift shop that offers souvenirs, clothes, toys, collectibles, CDs and environmental friendly items.