Vol. 8 Issue 7 53ROAD TO RECOVERY: HOW TO REHABILITATE A SEAL
5
RELEASE
Rehabilitated seals are released on
quiet beaches. Pups that have reached
a healthy weight and learned to fend
for themselves are often released in
groups. Each one will wear a sanctuary
flipper tag and be added to the
grey seal database, so that it will be
recognised if it is seen again.(^1)
FIRST
RESPONSE
In autumn and winter most
calls to the British Divers
Marine Life Rescue seal
hotline concern weak or
injured pups, but the team
also help sick, injured or
net-entangled adults. The
public should keep their
distance and avoid eye
contact with the seal – and
keep dogs under control.
3
RESCUE
Pups requiring further
treatment are bagged and
carried off the beach, then
transferred to a crate for
transport to the Cornish
Seal Sanctuary. Sick and
injured animals receive
individualised treatment in
private hospital cubicles.
Underweight pups are
fed up, socialised and
taught how to hunt.
2
ASSESSMENT
A medic assesses
the health of the seal,
taking their temperature
and blood samples where
necessary. They can carry
out some emergency
treatments on site,
including rehydration,
cleaning any wounds and
administering antibiotics. In
the worst cases, seals are
euthanised on the spot.
4
REHAB
Most of the animals
brought to the sanctuary
will be fully rehabilitated.
However, those that
cannot be released
may become long-term
residents. These seals
will be trained to perform
tricks such as rolling over,
which enables sanctuary
staff to carry out routine
health checks.
Vol. 8 Issue 7 53