Life was uncertain for Guadalupe fur seal Denise when she stranded on the beach after becoming separated from her mother too soon. As a species that lives in the open ocean year-round, Guadalupe fur seals like Denise rarely come to shore unless they are sick or injured. When our trained responders found this tiny, orphaned pup, she looked skinny and malnourished.

Once at our hospital, veterinarians did a thorough admit exam and discovered she was also suffering from pneumonia. Denise received a specialized treatment plan and nutritious “fish smoothies” to help her become healthy again.

During three months in care, Denise gained a healthy amount of weight, and her fur coat grew thick. Once she received a clean bill of health, Denise was released back to her ocean home — a major win for this threatened species.