Although seal season has ended, we are still caring for two grey seals in our hospital. Both six-month old females have been diagnosed with permanent medical conditions that will make their survival in the wild very unlikely. After numerous exams and consultations with our veterinary team, both seals have been deemed non-releasable. We are currently working with NOAA and NMFS to find permanent placement for them in zoological facilities that can provide them with lifelong care and enrichment.

Grey seal #22-018 (left) stranded in Ship Bottom on March 15th, lethargic and suffering from multiple small puncture wounds. Compared to other seals, her recovery was very slow, prompting our veterinarian to consult with colleagues at Rancocas Veterinary Associates and Veterinary Cardiology Services. After a comprehensive exam using advanced diagnostic techniques, she was diagnosed with multiple heart issues. The veterinary team prescribed a treatment plan with medication to help control her cardiac conditions, and her symptoms have improved, becoming much more active and alert. The veterinary team has concluded that she will need to be on medication for her entire life to regulate the issues with her heart.

Grey seal #22-060 (right) stranded in Ventnor on May 5th. She was suffering from multiple lacerations and a swollen jaw. Once in our hospital, the Technicians noticed that she seemed to have issues with her vision. Upon examination by our veterinarian, it was determined that she is blind. She has a good feeding response when presented with food by the Technicians, however she has difficulty locating the fish in her pool on her own, and is also unable to track and capture live fish. Due to the extent her visual impairment and her inability to capture prey, she will not be able to survive in the wild.

While our primary goal for our patients is rehabilitation for release back into the wild, in situations where animals may not be released, every effort is made to secure a proper, enriching facility to provide lifetime care. Won't you please consider making a donation towards the care of the seals in our hospital?

Every donation, no matter the amount, helps us to provide them with food, medicine, vitamins and veterinary care.

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