An urgent warning has been issued to dog owners to keep a safe distance from seal pups after several recent rescues in Cornwall were found with injuries consistent with dog bites.
The Cornish Seal Sanctuary in Gweek says its team has already taken in a number of grey seal pups from around the county’s coastline, many of which were separated from their mothers or injured after being disturbed on beaches.
The charity says that while most encounters 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 Sanctuary rescues up to 60 grey seal pups that require specialist care before being released back into the wild. Visitors 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.”
The Sanctuary’s team is urging 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 protecting seal pups this half term include keeping dogs on leads and children close when walking near the coast, observing seals from at least 100 metres away, never trying to touch, feed or chase a seal back into the sea, and reporting any seal in distress.
Newquay groups reminded to apply for community grants
Street food venue slammed as ‘daytime nightclub’ in wrong location
Motorcyclist critically injured in collision
Live facial recognition cameras deployed in Newquay for first time
St Petrocs receives keys to new homes in Nansledan
Gas works traffic lights to be removed this evening
Police increase presence for Boardmasters festival
Newquay BID aims to change perceptions during Boardmasters
St Francis Dogs Home appeals for foster or forever home for Nala
Fundraiser launched after £20,000 of sheep stolen from Cornish farm
Huer's Hut to glow red and yellow for 25 years of RNLI lifeguards
Passenger levy could be reintroduced at Cornwall’s airport
Bristol cadets help transform Newquay childcare charity garden
Children's Hospice South West opens new charity shop
Newquay Minor Injury Unit to reduce opening hours over summer
Housing estate approved despite ‘accident waiting to happen’ fears
Police have issued an appeal to help reunite the family of a woman who died in the sea at Fistral Beach, with her handbag
Two people die after being recovered from the sea at South Fistral
UK Surf & Skate Expo to return with bigger line-up in Newquay
