Warning after dog disrupts vulnerable seal pup

A marine rescue charity has appealed for the public’s help after a young seal pup was frightened back into the sea when it was disturbed by a dog at La Braye Beach.

The British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR) said the small grey pup was spotted resting on the sand on Thursday morning, likely recovering from recent rough seas.

But earlier in the week, on Tuesday, a dog was reported to have “lashed out” after its owner approached the pup. Startled, the animal fled into the waves as the tide was rising.

BDMLR said the pup may simply have been taking a much-needed rest, waiting for its mother, or struggling after being washed away by heavy swells. In any case, it urged islanders to take care if they come across seals.

“Please keep dogs on leads and away from seals,” the charity posted on social media. “They haul out on beaches for a reason — never chase them back into the sea. If you see one, call it in so we can respond.”

Anyone who spots the pup has been asked to contact the JSPCA, which will then alert BDMLR urgently with details of the sighting and its location.

The charity also thanked the member of the public who reported the incident, and the JSPCA for passing on a clear description straight away.