MERR responds for grey seal rescue from river dock near Dover
A call came in to the Marine Education, Research and Rehabilitation Institute late in the evening of April 27 about a young grey seal located at the end of a dock on the St. Jones River near Dover.
The seal was spotted by a local fisher collecting minnows for his fish at home. Thurman rallied a small team who met with the caller, along with a couple local and state police officers who were notified by MERR of the situation.
“He was at the very end of a narrow public dock, so we had to act swiftly and carefully,” Thurman said. “We were able to gently lead him into a large crate and carry him off the dock to our vehicle.”
Upon arriving with the seal back at MERR’s main office, Thurman observed labored breathing and a reluctance to exit the crate, so she decided to observe the seal overnight. After being examined by MERR veterinarian Scott Weber, it was determined that the seal should be held for further observation and treatment, so arrangements were made with the New York Marine Rescue Center in Long Island, N.Y., to transport the seal early April 29.
“He was rather robust and fairly responsive, but there were just a few things about this seal that were concerning to us,” Thurman said. “We felt it was better for the welfare of the seal for him to receive additional veterinary treatment.”
Thurman said the overnight rescue was successful due to the teamwork with local citizens and law enforcement. “We wish to give big thanks to Matthew, who placed the initial call to us, and who then stood as a sentinel over the seal, and was even joined by his mother and local police, who all assisted in the rescue of this creature,” she said. “It’s because of their compassion that this seal is getting the treatment he deserves.”
In keeping with the MERR naming theme of fonts, this seal was named Franklin Gothic, and he will be renamed by the NYMRC using its theme of crystals and gemstones. MERR officials hope to post more good news about Franklin as he progresses with his recovery.
