The BDMLR Cornwall Seal Hospital has welcomed its first patient for the 2026/2027 grey seal rescue season.
The young pup, named Golka, was rescued from St Ives Bay after being found weak and significantly underweight. Estimated to be around three to four weeks old, she weighs in at only 13.8kg, which is almost half the weight typically expected for newly weaned grey seal pups.
As well as being malnourished, Golka was also found with several infected wounds across her back and an ulcer in her left eye. Thankfully, these conditions are treatable and she is now recieivng dedicated care from our hospital team. Her treatment will include regular wound care and cleaning, medication, close veterinary monitoring, and a carefully managed feeding plan to help her gain weight and rebuild the strength she currently lacks. Over the coming weeks, the team will support Golka until she moves on for the next stage of her rehabilitation which includes swimming. All hard work by many people working towards the shared goal of getting her back safely in to the wild.
This season, patients admitted to the hospital are named after cheeses… Golka is just the first of many pups we are expecting!
The Cornwall Seal Hosptial relies on public support to provide food, equipment and veterinary care for rescued pups throughout the season. Donations and items purchased through our Amazon Wishlist support patients including Golka during their recovery.
To learn more about our hospital, the work we do and how you can get involved, click here.