Essex animal hospital warning after seal pup attacked

The South Essex Wildlife Hospital, based in Orsett, is urging dog owners to keep their pets on leads when walking near seal habitats, particularly during the vulnerable pup season, to avoid incidents like this.

In a statement shared on social media, the hospital detailed the shocking injuries the pup sustained.

Plea - Seal attacked by dog in Essex (Image: South Essex Wildlife Hospital)

The young seal was left with dozens of puncture wounds and a severe laceration beneath her tail after being attacked by a dog.

Fortunately, the British Divers Marine Life Rescue team quickly intervened, rescuing the pup and bringing her to the hospital for urgent care.

Once stabilized with food and rest, the pup underwent surgery, where lead vet Tom Linsel meticulously worked to close the large wound under her tail.

The location of the injury made the procedure particularly challenging, but the team’s perseverance paid off, and the wound was successfully sutured.

Recovery - Lead vet Tom Linsel (Image: South Essex Wildlife Hospital)

Now on antibiotics and pain relief, the seal pup remains in recovery.

A spokesman for the South Essex Wildlife Hospital said: “If you happen to be walking your dog on a beach known for seals, and especially seal pups, please make sure they are under control and kept on a lead.

“This poor girl is an example of what can happen if the worst should happen, attacked by a dog.

“She is still in recovery, but we really hope we have been able to give her a chance.”

The South Essex Wildlife Hospital, which serves the whole of south Essex and beyond, works tirelessly all year round to nurse sick and injured animals back to full health.

The charity often has more than 300 rescue requests coming in daily.