Nickname: Jess
Species: Harbour Seal
Patient ID: PV1902
Admitted on: 2019/02/18
Collection Site: Point Grey Park at Trafalgar Street (Kitsilano), Vancouver
Reason for Admission: Eye injuries; underweight
Weight at Admission: 14.6 kg
Patient Status: transferred
Time in Care: 164 days (5 months, 1 week, 4 days)
Received from: (Direct to MMR)
Mode of Transport: MMR Ambulance
Transfer to: Vancouver Aquarium
Date of Transfer: 2019/08/01
Reason for Transfer: Deemed non-releasable by DFO
Jessica Seal was transferred to Vancouver Aquarium after 164 days in our care.
"Jessica Seal was deemed non-releasable by Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO). She is almost completely blind as a result of the injuries she sustained and would be unable to care for herself. The decision was therefore made to transfer her to a zoological facility for permanent care. She will be moved to the Vancouver Aquarium until another suitable facility can be found."
Jessica is settling in at the Vancouver Aquarium, her new home. She's already picked some favourite spots to hang out, and she's 'made friends' with the two resident harbour seals Hermes and DaVinci.
Today marked a huge milestone for Jessica Seal. Following Fisheries and Oceans Canada's decision to deem her non-releasable, Jessica was transferred to the Vancouver Aquarium, which will be her new home for now. She didn't waste any time following her arrival, immediately went into the water and then spent hours exploring every nook and cranny of her new habitat. She played with every enrichment toy that was offered to her and showed quite a bit of appetite after this early morning adventure. After 5 long months of rehabilitation and recovery from the painful injuries she sustained, it was great to see her start this new chapter of her life. MMR staff and volunteers will check in on her as much as possible. So stay tuned for a few more updates on Jessica.
Jessica has been moved to the largest pre-release pool for a bit. She's still busy figuring out where everything is, and she's taken an interest in all those super-exciting water outlets...
Jessica is everyone's favourite these days. She is blind, but that seems not to be stopping her from enjoying herself. She's frequently seen playing with her favourite enrichment toys, and very active and curious.
Thank you all for your kind comments. Some of you have been asking about Jessica Seal's status. At this point, she remains in our temporary care as a patient. No decision has been made regarding her release. Following Jessica Seal's rehabilitation, we will work with Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) to determine whether or not she meets the release criteria. Ultimately, any decision will take into account what is best for the animal under animal welfare considerations. For now, staff are happy with her progress in rehabilitation and excited to see her eagerly explore her surroundings despite her limitations.
Jessica is doing well. She continues to gain weight and is looking better then ever. She may not be able to see much at all, but she is making up for it with her excellent hearing and sense of smell. Jessica is very active and curious and can been seen doing normal seal things throughout the day. Staff is happy with her progress.
Jessica Seal has made good progress. Her eye is healing nicely, she is gaining weight.
Jessica is responding well to treatment. She has a great appetite!
Jessica Seal is blind in the left eye and has limited sight on the right. She's also underweight (and very hungry!).
Oh no! Wishing you have a speedy recovery, JS! ♥️
Jessica, we think you’re beautiful!
We love you and wish you a speedy recovery! ?
Thanks to the rescue centre for their kind hearts and taking care of these sweet innocent animals.