Advice if you find a seal on a Caithness beach

It's not unusual to spot seals on Caithness beaches and it doesn't always mean they need help, says a Scottish animal welfare organisation.

If you do come across a seal, it is very important to keep a safe distance especially if you have a dog with you. Seals can become panicked by dogs so please keep yours on a lead. Many mothers also leave their pups on land while they go forage, but if you disturb the pup it is likely its mum won't return.

A spokesperson for the Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SSPCA) said: "Each year we care for around 180 seals at our National Wildlife Rescue Centre, and it costs around £500 to provide just one seal with the care it needs.

"Our specialist team will care for and treat any injuries until the seal is strong enough to survive at sea."

If you see a seal on land and suspect it is injured, please keep a safe distance and call the SSPCA animal helpline on 03000 999 999.

You can find out more about seals and how to keep them safe at www.scottishspca.org/seals

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