Underweight Seal Pup Rescued in Guernsey

A grey seal pup, significantly underweight at one-third of its expected mass, has been saved in Guernsey. The GSPCA (Guernsey Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) admitted the pup after it was discovered at Fort Houmet. Geoff George, the charity’s head of marine mammals, reported that the pup’s weight was 15kg (33lb) and described its condition as “very dehydrated, thin, has a possible chest infection and full of worms”. He indicated that the pup had been prematurely separated from its mother and would receive continuous care. This pup, named California Girl by the rescue team, marks the GSPCA’s second rescue of the current season. Mr. George mentioned that the first pup, Roar, rescued in October, was “doing really well”. Steve Byrne, GSPCA manager, stated that the charity is exploring alternatives as it intends to dismantle its existing seal facilities to construct a new center. He explained that the RSPCA in the UK could not assist, and what is needed is a pool environment where seal pups can recover weight and strength before being released back into their natural habitat. He added: “As we have our preferred builders we are now in negotiations with, we are hopeful for a quick turn around for Roar and California Girl ahead of the new build – but we are reaching out to anyone who thinks they can help with certainly this and next year’s seal pup rehab.” He concluded by saying: “Seal pup season is once again with us and we have lots of details online on what to do if you do see a seal in trouble, but the easiest is just call us.”