2019 Patient of the Year
California sea lion Bluegrass was spotted at PIER 39, a popular Bay Area sea lion hangout, with a severe wound to his face. He was brought to our hospital where our expert veterinary team determined the wound was from a gunshot.
Bluegrass underwent intensive surgery and was left with only one eye. But our veterinary experts know that sea lions are able to survive in the wild with just one eye as their other senses, like smell and hearing, can help compensate.
Gunshot victims like Bluegrass serve as a stark reminder of the continued need for protections, such as the Marine Mammal Protection Act, for this sentinel species. Luckily, we have seen a steady decline in gunshot injury admits since the early 1990s and, thanks to caring people like you, can continue advocating for marine mammals.
After weeks of rehabilitative care, Bluegrass' gunshot wound healed fully and he was released back to the wild with a second chance.
Thank you for your generous donation and for making a difference in the life of a marine mammal like Bluegrass.
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.
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Please note that this is a non-customizable, download-only certificate.