Frisbee warning issued to dog owners

A number of Horsey seal pups have been swept south by a high tide
-Credit: (Image: PA)


Dog owners have been warned to watch out for the welfare of seals when visiting the beach with their pooch. The NAWT and The Sea Life Trust Cornish Seal Sanctuary warned about the dangers of ring-style frisbees, and the harm they can cause to wildlife.

The Sea Life Trust Cornish Seal Sanctuary is a charity that rescues and rehabilitates grey seal pups from around the Cornish coastline. Each season, between September and March, the Sanctuary rehabilitates more than 70 seal pups that have been rescued for various reasons including malnourishment and being separated from their mum.

Grey seal pups are now life-threatening dangers from dog toys. Ring-style frisbee’s can cause injuries to wildlife if left behind, which often happens when owners throw them into the sea for the dog to chase, and they end up floating away and getting lost.

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Seals are the most affected as they can become entangled, often being found with them wrapped around their necks, which can ultimately lead to a prolonged and painful death. The Sanctuary has seen first-hand the consequences that these beautiful creatures face.

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. Tamara Cooper, Curator at the Cornish Seal Sanctuary, has given her advice on how to behave around pups should you ever encounter one.

What to do:

  • Keep off any beach where a seal pup has been found

  • Keep dogs on a lead

  • Keep your distance from the mum and pup

  • If you see a pup keep out of sight and remain as quiet as possible to give mum and pup the best chance of remaining together

The NWAT shared: "If you are concerned about a pup, the Cornish Seal Sanctuary and BDMLR can be contacted for advice and assistance on 01326 221361 or 01825 765546 respectively. We encourage dog owners to read over the DEFRA Marine Code of Conduct, and share with family and friends, especially this time of year.

"The information provided gives advice on how you can help to minimise disturbance to wildlife when you visit the coast. Thank you so much to the Cornish Seal Sanctuary for taking the time to share this information with us."