Patient Update: October 10th

Seals:

Androscoggin “Andy”, Chicopee, Pawcatuck “Tuck”, and Piscataqua “Cat”

Andy, Chicopee, Tuck and Cat were released on October 4th, 2018. Due to the declared Unusual Mortality Event, these animals were held back from release in order to undergo testing for Influenza A and Phocine Distemper Virus. As a result of this, they were held in our facility for slightly longer than is typical for these animals. When all these factors were considered, we chose to keep this release private in order to minimize stressors on the animals and ensure a successful reintroduction to the wild. It deeply saddens us that we could not share this moment with you guys, as we couldn’t do what we do here without your support. We thank you for understanding.

Sugar

After undergoing a surgery to repair damage done to Sugar’s eye that we suspect is due to the Phocine Herpesvirus 1, Sugar got her stitches removed this past week! Her eye looks great, as this surgery promoted the growth of healthy tissue. She will continue to enjoy herself in one of our larger tanks as we work to get Sugar ready for her eventual release.

Bear and Jones

Bear (top) and Jones (bottom) have undergone numerous rounds of treatments as a result of their ear infections in order to prevent further damage to their eardrums. They recently received radiographs to determine the integrity of their eardrums and we are hopeful that these treatments have helped them somewhat. Ear infections can be a big issue for diving animals, as they can make diving to deep depths very painful. As a result of this, we will continue to monitor Bear and Jones’ health very closely.

Turtles:

Etta

Etta now has a set date for her surgery! She will receive a surgery to repair damage done on her shoulder due to the osteolytic lesion that manifested as a result of her cold stunning. This surgery will take place on October 25th at New England Aquarium. In the meantime, she will continue to receive physical therapy on her front left flipper and eat her fill of squid.

Posted by Grant M.

Grant is a second semester intern who recently graduated from Roger Williams University with degrees in Biology and Chemistry.