VPD Marine Unit rescues week-old seal pup near Bowen Island

The Vancouver Police Department’s Marine Unit and the Vancouver Aquarium Marine Mammal Rescue Society rescued a distressed, week-old harbour seal pup near Bowen Island on July 21.

VAMMR requested help after a visitor spotted the lone female pup at Seymour Bay near Cowan Point at about 5 p.m. VPD sent its Marine vessel Larry Young with three veterinary technicians. Officers made a beach landing at 6:50 p.m., allowing the team to secure the animal safely.

The pup, named Canadian Bacon, was taken to VAMMR’s facility for medical treatment. The organization says she is receiving close care and it is cautiously optimistic she can be returned to the wild in a few months.

With harbour seals in pupping season, authorities say mothers may leave pups ashore to rest. The public is asked to stay back, leash dogs and not attempt rescues. Sightings can be reported to VAMMR at 604-258-7325.