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Dog plays with ‘over-friendly seal’ – but RSPCA warn people to leave the animal alone

2021-12-13 00:00:00.0 太阳报-英国新闻原网页

A DOG approaches an “over-friendly” seal which experts are desperate to move on.

The juvenile, named “Spearmint”, was rescued and freed but has been encouraged to stay by people hand-feeding her.

The dog and seal appear to go in for a kiss Credit: Neil Hope 3

While the images look adorable, the RSPCA are concerned about the seal's welfare Credit: Neil Hope 3

Dan Jarvis of the British Marine Divers Rescue is worried Spearmint has been left vulnerable to 'antisocial behaviour, physical harm and dog attacks' Credit: Neil Hope

Warning signs have now been put up near Plymouth Hoe in Devon to help her relocate

The RSPCA said: “People may think they are helping, but these are wild animals and need to be left well alone.”

Dan Jarvis of the British Marine Divers Rescue said: "A juvenile seal known as Spearmint has been visiting the area recently and is regularly being monitored by members of the local community.

"She was rescued and rehabilitated last year but since being released has been hand-fed a number of times by people which has sadly led to her becoming quite tame and approaching people to look for food instead, leaving her very vulnerable to antisocial behaviour, physical harm and dog attacks.

"By trying to keep people at a distance and allowing her space on her own, we are attempting to help her grow out of this learned behaviour to once again become naturally wary of humans and not associate us as a food source.

"Unfortunately, relocation to other areas has not worked despite several attempts and she has so far continued to repeatedly seek out public beaches on each occasion instead."