How to help a stranded animal on the beach

Palm Coast Observer
Neighbors

What do you do if you see a marine animal, e.g., a whale or a dolphin, washed up on shore on one of Flagler County’s beaches?

According to Senior Vice President and Chief Zoological Officer Billy Hurley, of the Georgia Aquarium, most people have it all wrong.

“The worst thing people can do is push these animals back in,” Hurley said. “I’ve talked to thousands of people who say things like: ‘We saw a dolphin, and we pushed it back in!’

“There’s a reason they’re on the beach,” he said. “It’s because they can’t swim anymore. Pushing them back in in that moment is not a good idea. It’s like you going to the beach when you have the flu and swimming as far out as you can.”

The correct answer: “Call people who know what to do,” Hurley said.

That means calling this hotline: 866-755-6622.

But if anything, call any emergency number you know, and it will eventually be transferred to the right hands. Specialized emergency personnel can order a 15-foot stretcher or other necessary equipment. Hurley said that while a beachgoer is waiting, he or she can try to keep the animal wet and shaded so it doesn’t become dehydrated.

That’s the main message that was delivered earlier this month to the 8- to 10-year-old participa, at the Marineland Dolphin Adventure Summer SEA Camp.

Hurley said teaching children these basics of animal rescue, through mock stranding of the blow-up dolphin, Annie, can have a great influence in the future as the children grown up.

“I’m sitting here thinking right now, looking at 20 children with five counselors and seven trainers, and the children have learned what biologists do in the field,” Hurley said. “We want them to be inspired, to call and ask for help (when they see a stranded animal).”

Public Relations Specialist Francesca Allegra added: “It’s all about inspiration for us. That’s our main mission: creating an emotional connection, inspiring our children to better our community and the environment.”

Allegra helps promote Marineland Dolphin Adventure in the region. The attraction was purchased by the world-famous Georgia Aquarium six months ago.