Sharks Don't Belong in Backyard Pools...

In a surprising and saddening turn of events, a white-tipped shark died last weekend as a direct result of its use in filming a Kmart commercial. The animal began to show signs of stress after being shipped from New York to Los Angeles and placed in a backyard pool for the shoot. While filming, the representative for the AHA pointed out the animal's duress and told them to move the animal for treatment. It died shortly after, leaving some unanswered questions in the wake of its passing. No one knows at this time where it was sent for treatment, or what their purpose was in acquiring the shark.

Photo Credit: PETA via National Geographic

Several experts were surprised that they attempted to use a shark in the first place. Sharks, like most aquatic animals, become stressed when displaced and can be sensitive and difficult to care for.

At a time when so many victories have been won in the name of preserving sharks, many species of which are critically endangered, this was sad news. I'm not one to cry 'brutality'; in reality, it was probably the circumstances that killed the shark, not necessarily any direct action taken by an individual. The real irresponsibility lies in their use and care of the shark in the first place.

We're sorry to hear the news, but grateful to National Geographic for circulating it.