2019 Patient of the Year Nominee
Northern fur seal Inky was rescued weak and starving, although you might not have suspected it since he was admitted at over 215 pounds! Inky is the largest northern fur seal ever admitted to the Center, but still weighed about half of what he should have as an adult male.
Lab results confirmed our veterinarians' suspicion that Inky was suffering from domoic acid, a potentially deadly neurotoxin. This toxin can also affect humans who eat contaminated shellfish, though marine mammals are often the first to be impacted. By caring for patients like Inky, our scientists can alert authorities when we see an outbreak and help them better protect human health.
Thankfully Inky came into our care before significant damage, and we were able to help flush the toxin from his system by giving him fluids and fish free of domoic acid. After being granted a clean bill of health, he was released back to his ocean home with a second chance.
Thank you for your generous donation and for making a difference in the life of a marine mammal like Inky.
Adoption Details
This is an exclusive digital-only Adopt-a-Seal®. When you adopt this patient, you’ll automatically be able to download your adoption certificate, which shares this patient's photo and story.
Download your digital Adopt-a-Seal® today!
Please note that this is a non-customizable, download-only certificate.