Warning to dog owners of risks posed by toys

Monday, 30 September 2024 12:04

Charities are raising awareness of the risks posed to seals by frisbee dog toys.

The National Animal Welfare Trust has teamed up with the Cornish Seal Sanctuary, to warn seals can become entangled in ring-style frisbees, which often float away or are left behind on the beach.

The charities caution that when these toys become caught around seals' necks, they can "ultimately lead to a prolonged and painful death."

Last year, rescuers saved the life of a grey seal on the Cornish coastline after it was found with a ring-style frisbee stuck around its neck.Known locally as ‘Wings’ and recognised as a regular summer visitor, her familiarity with humans aided in her rescue. Under normal circumstances, rescuing entangled seals can be challenging, as they often haul out in hard-to-reach areas.

Despite Wings' fortunate outcome, the Seal Sanctuary is now issuing a stark warning, as ring-style frisbees are becoming an increasingly serious issue across the UK. Although Wings’ close proximity to humans and boats saved her life, it was also the cause of her condition. Seals that spend more time near people and the shore are at greater risk of becoming entangled in debris left behind.

The National Animal Welfare Trust is supporting the sanctuary by spreading the word among dog owners about how local marine life can be better protected.

With grey seal pup season now underway, a renewed plea is being made for people to keep dogs on leads to prevent "seal pup disturbance."

Tammara Cooper, Curator at the Cornish Seal Sanctuary, has offered advice on how to behave around pups if you encounter one.

At this time of year, the Seal Sanctuary advises the public to:

- Avoid any beach where a pup has been found

- Keep dogs on leads

- Maintain distance from both the pup and its mother

- If you see a pup, keep out of sight and remain as quiet as possible to give the mother and pup the best chance of staying together

- Seal pups are often left safely above the high tide mark by their mothers, who return to the sea to feed. The mother will usually be watching from the water.

Pups need regular feeding to ensure their survival through the critical weaning period. Even a few missed feeds can be the difference between life and death for a seal pup.

Dog owners are urged to be vigilant when walking their dogs on beaches, particularly those with secluded shores and caves, where seal mothers and pups may be present. If you encounter a seal pup alone on a public beach, do not approach or touch it. Keep your dog under control and always on a lead.