Animals

Stranded sperm whales Steps On What To Do: Always call for expert help. But

first, several considerations: Most Important: The blowhole at

the top of a whale's or dolphin's head is its breathing apparatus.

Be sure that water and sand do not enter it. If an animal is lying on its side or on its back and its blowhole is exposed to waves or is covered, the whale or dolphin should be turned onto its belly being sure not to cause damage to or bend its fins or tail, and being sure that there are no sharp objects lying around which could cause damage.

If it is not clear that a whale or dolphin is alive, its breathing can be checked by observation of the blowhole. For a dolphin, the blowhole will contract every 15-30 seconds but for a large whale, the contractions may be only once every 20 minutes (see More info).

Survival time of stranded whales and dolphins Whales and dolphins can survive a long period of time (up to two days) if they are protected from dangers and are kept wet.

Have as much as possible of the following information when you call: Exact location, type of animal and description of bodily features, its breathing rate, how many animals there are, approximate size, coloring, physical condition, apparent wounds,

kind of beach stranded on - sand or rock, and whether animal is in or out of the surf, rescue attempts already made. And if you can be contacted, your number.

Do not attempt to move the whale or dolphin without the proper equipment and expertise

Guard against sunburn The sheeting used to cover and keep the animal wet, will also help guard against sunburn

Service dogs Mobility assistance for the physically

handicapped Guide dogs for the blind Hearing dogs for the hearing impaired

Therapy dogs provide cheer and entertainment for the elderly in retirement facilities

Rescue dogs assist people who are in difficult situations, such as in the water after a boat disaster

Search dogs locate people who are missing; lost in the wilderness

Herding dogs guard the flocks and herds Sled dogs assist in transporting people and

supplies in rugged, snowy terrain

Hunting dogs assist hunters in finding, tracking, and retrieving game

Watch dogs or guard dogs protect private or public property

Tracking dogs help find lost people and animals or track down possible criminals.

Detection dogs help to detect termites in homes, illegal substances in luggage, bombs, chemicals, and many other substances.

War dogs specialized military tasks such as mine detection

Police dogs are usually trained to track or immobilize possible criminals while assisting officers in making arrests or investigating the scene of a crime

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