Can't view this email properly? Click here for the online version

Giving Wildlife a Second Chance

We Rescue, Rehabilitate, and Release Imperiled Wildlife

Sat, Aug 1, 2009

www.californiawildlifecenter.org

Dear Friends of CWC,

It's not very often that we receive a rescue call for a live dolphin, but Friday we got one! When dolphins or whales strand on the beach, it is because they are very sick. They need to be kept out of the water, in the shade. Placing wet towels on them to keep them wet, no water should go in the blowhole (located on the top of their head, it’s how they breath). They need to be kept upright, and little holes should be dug out in the sand under their front flippers so they are not touching anything. Most people think they should go back in the water, but that is not true. If placed back in the water, they can drown. But remember, even very small dolphins can be dangerous as they have a powerful tail flipper and many teeth. It is critical to get medical help for them right away so please call our hotline at 310-458-WILD.

This little dolphin was very lucky. It stranded in front of the home of friends of CWC, and they took awesome care of it until we arrived. It was transported, with a "lights and siren" escort down PCH by Malibu's finest from the Lost Hills Sheriff's Station. Upon arriving at the Marine Mammal Care Center in San Pedro, it was stabilized and then transported to SeaWorld. This male dolphin was estimated to be just a few months old, weighing about 50 pounds.

So many people were involved to help save this baby dolphin. A special thanks has to go to Victoria Harris, our Exec. Director for letting us transport this wet, sandy dolphin in her SUV (she has leather interior)! Let's all keep our fingers crossed that it does well at SeaWorld.

Your CWC Marine Mammal Rescue Team

California Wildlife Center (CWC) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation and release of sick, injured and orphaned native wildlife. The Center fulfills this responsibility by providing expert medical care and through community outreach and education. The Center is located on a three + acre parcel in the Santa Monica Mountains, generously provided by California State Parks.

Since its founding in 1998, CWC has provided care for more than 20,000 animals. Operating with a small staff, including a veterinarian and a team of 40 trained volunteers who log 13,000+ hours a year, CWC provides emergency care to native wildlife in Los Angeles County, 365 days a year. The Center does not receive government subsidies and must rely on donations to continue its mission.