Today at the seaquarium I observed one of the African fur seals have eye drops put into one of her eyes. They were given to an elderly seal who had previously undergone cataract surgery. Vision deterioration is common in elderly pinnipeds, especially those living in captivity. This is due to the chlorine put in the pools that keep them clean. Part of the marine mammal trainers role is to check chlorine levels daily. If chlorine levels are at a level considered harmful; the seals must be removed from the pool for a water change.
The seal dealt with being given the eye drops extremely well. This is due to the behaviour training given to them. Training behaviours that seals perform at shows are natural behaviours that they would show in the wild and behaviours that allow health checks to take place safely e.g. seal opening his/her mouth for dental checks. The eye drops are medically prescribed from the vet therefore its important that the seals are comfortable in performing the health check behaviours so they’re able to receive the treatment they may need.
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