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Three seals have been rescued by a Cornish seal sanctuary after suffering suspected dog bites. The Cornish Seal Sanctuary is urging beachgoers to keep a safe distance from seal pups this half term following the rescues.
The team has already taken in a number of grey seal pups from around the Cornish coastline, many of them separated from their mothers or injured after being disturbed on beaches. While most interactions between people, pets and wildlife are unintentional, even well-meaning approaches can cause distress or harm to vulnerable pups.
"We completely understand that people love getting out on the coast with their dogs, especially during half term," said Grace Jones, conservation officer at the Cornish Seal Sanctuary. "We simply ask visitors to enjoy our beaches responsibly. By keeping dogs on leads near wildlife and giving resting seals plenty of space. These small actions make a huge difference to the safety of both seals and dogs."
Each year, the Cornish Seal Sanctuary rescues up to 60 grey seal pups that need specialist care before being released back to the wild. Visitors to the sanctuary can see some of this season's rescued pups in the seal hospital and nursery pools and learn more about how the expert team rehabilitates them for release.
"Our rescued pups are an important reminder of how fragile life can be for these wild animals," added Grace, "by visiting the sanctuary, people can see first-hand how their support helps us give these seals a second chance.
October half term is the perfect time for families to visit the sanctuary, guests can see how the charity's rescued seal pups are doing and learn all about the sanctuary's vital mission. This season's pups are all named after delicious, sweet treats and desserts; so far they've had S'mores, Meringue, Cream Puff, Waffle and Sorbet!"
The sanctuary's expert team is encouraging anyone who spots a seal pup on the beach to keep their distance, keep dogs on a lead, and call the British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR) on 01825 765546 for advice.
Top tips for helping protect seal pups this half term:
Keep dogs on leads and children close when walking near the coast. Observe seals from at least 100 metres away. Never try to touch, feed, or chase a seal back into the sea. Report any seal in distress to BDMLR.
The Cornish Seal Sanctuary in Gweek is open daily, offering visitors the chance to meet rescued pups and learn about the charity's vital rescue, rehabilitation, and release work.
Every ticket and donation supports the Sanctuary's mission to protect marine life and inspire ocean conservation.
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