"Very poorly" seal pup receiving emergency care

Monday 07 December 2020

A seal pup found in an "emaciated" condition at Pleinmont is now receiving around-the-clock care at the GSPCA.

The grey pup, who has been named Dakota, was found at the weekend at the slipway near the Fairy Ring.

“Dakota weighs in at just 16 kilograms and should really be three times this weight for his age," said Geoff George, Head of Marine Mammals for the GSPCA. 

“Dakota was spotted at the slipway near the Fairy Ring with no mother in sight and very poorly.”

He is the first seal pup washed up on Guernsey's shores this year and joins Joey, who was brought here from Jersey, at the animal charity's specialist seal facility. 

GSPCA Manager Steve Byrne said the next few weeks will be critical for both pups in their recovery.

“Both Dakota and Joey the Jersey seal pup have a long way to go before they are ready for the wild," he said. "Both pups will need a lot of treatment and fish and anyone wanting to donate to their care please call 01481 257261, at the GSPCA, Rue des Truchots, St Andrews, Guernsey GY6 8UD"

More advice on what to do if you come across a washed-up seal pup can be found HERE. 

Pictured top: Dakota the seal pup was discovered at the slipway near the Fairy Ring.