Heartbreaking Outcome for Three Stranded Dolphins

Sandy Hook, New Jersey – Three dolphins who were rescued from a marsh in Sandy Hook, New Jersey, had to be euthanized because of their poor condition. According to the Marine Mammal Stranding Center, the stranded dolphins were discovered by a birder on October 19.

The organization said:

The MMSC Stranding Team immediately mobilized from Brigantine as National Park Service officers confirmed the dolphins’ location on the north side of Spermaceti Cove. All three dolphins were stranded in the marsh grass near a shallow creek. Two certified MMSC Stranding Volunteers arrived on scene to assist, and additional support was requested from Sea Bright Fire and Rescue.

A team of rescuers secured the dolphins onto stretchers and transported them to a beach for an initial exam before being transported to a MMSC’s Rescue Vehicle.

The rescued dolphins were examined by an MMSC veterinarian, but the prognosis was dire. The agency writes:

Unfortunately, all three were found to be weak, lethargic, thin and in poor body condition. When stranded on land, the pressure of their own body weight can cause damage to internal organs, significantly reducing their chances of survival. Given the dolphins’ poor condition and the unknown length of time they had been trapped in the mud, their prognosis for survival was very poor. Following veterinary assessment, the difficult decision was made to humanely euthanize all three dolphins to prevent further suffering.

Necropsies will be performed on all of the dolphins. Updates on the outcome of the necropsies will be posted at this link.