BRIGANTINE, N.J. – The Marine Mammal Stranding Center is urging beachgoers and dog owners to give seals plenty of space after sightings increased along the New Jersey shoreline this week.
Officials said seals have begun returning to local beaches as winter temperatures drop, reminding the public that the animals are federally protected and should never be approached or disturbed. The center stressed that people must stay at least 150 feet away and keep dogs leashed at all times.
“Seals have a very painful bite and can transmit serious diseases to dogs and humans,” the center said in a statement. “Treatment for these infections can be long, painful, and costly.”
Residents who encounter a seal on the beach are asked not to attempt to feed, touch, or move it. Instead, they should contact the Marine Mammal Stranding Center’s 24-hour hotline at (609) 266-0538 so trained technicians can assess the animal’s condition.
The center also thanked the public for helping protect both wildlife and pets during seal season.