Beached dolphins put down by lethal injection

A DOLPHIN and her young calf were put down by lethal injection. Repeated attempts to refloat them failed after the pair became stranded at Cockle Beach in Crookhaven.

At least four attempts were made by locals and tourists to get the mammals back into the water.

But, each time, the mother swam back onto the shore and beached herself with her calf.

Gardaí were called to the scene along with members of the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group.

Group spokesman Pádraig Whooley said the dolphin mother and her calf were spotted at about 10am on Saturday.

However, it wasn’t until some time later that his organisation was informed.

He said that once dolphins become stranded their muscles become totally cramped.

“The mother was very lethargic and didn’t look very well.

“A healthy dolphin wouldn’t have exposed her calf to such a risk.

“In all likelihood, she probably had a heart condition or could have been infected by parasites,” said Mr Whooley. A collective decision, he said, was made that the dolphins should be put down.

Local vet Tim O’Leary was called in to administer lethal injections, which took almost instant effect.

The injections were administered at 1.10am on Sunday.

“As mammals which breathe air, the dolphins could have taken several days to die. It would have been cruel to kill the mother and leave the calf on its own.

“Because it was so young, it would have had zero chance of survival,” said Mr Whooley.

Meanwhile, to mark national whale watch day next Sunday, the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group is hosting 15 land-based watching events.

“The purpose of the day is to raise awareness about the 24 species of cetaceans that can be seen around the Irish coast, by giving members of the public an opportunity to observe these wonderful marine mammals in their natural environment,” said Mr Whooley.

The free event is being organised in association with Inis Cologne, and those attending should bring binoculars or a spotting scope.

The events are being held from 2pm-5pm at Ardmore, Waterford; Galley Head, Garranes, Beara in Cork and Slea Head, Kerry.