FIRST AID / PROVISION OF FIRST AID

First aid and short-term care of cetaceans can be provided on the spot at the place of stranding.

  • Make sure the animal is alive. He breathes every 15′-20′.
  • Do not lead the animal into the deep end. Do not pull it by the fins or tail.
  • Place the animal in a horizontal position. Make sure that the bellows (the nostril at the top of the head) is always clean and out of water.
  • Keep body parts exposed to air, moist and cool with sea water. Do not pour water into the blower.
  • Cover the animal with a light-coloured and damp cloth, leaving the fins, eyes and bladder uncovered.
  • Use a sunshade and cover with petroleum jelly (not sunscreen) the parts of the body that are exposed to the air or sun. Attention to the eyes, bellows and lips.
  • Do not give water or food.
  • Move people away. Appoint a “shore manager”.
  • Ensure peace and quiet during handling. Stress can be fatal.
  • Do not use strong lighting on the dolphin.