Rescued Sea Lion Shot in Face Returned to the Ocean | SeaWorld San Diego

After more than two months of monitoring a sea lion with fishing line wrapped around its head and a serious eye injury, SeaWorld San Diego was finally able to rescue him from a dock at a local marina. Over several weeks, multiple attempts to rescue the male sea lion came up empty as he would dive back into the waters of the marina. It was ultimately determined that the only way to give him a second chance at life was to sedate him with a tranquilizer dart. On Dec. 8, Dr. Todd Schmitt, SeaWorld’s senior veterinarian, sedated the sea lion allow the Rescue Team to safely bring him back to the park’s animal care facility. During the surgical procedure to remove the fishing line that was embedded in his skin, it was determined through X-rays that he had been shot through the eye with the bullet lodged in his jaw and throat area. Dr. Schmitt was able to successfully remove the fishing line, bullet, as well as the damaged eye. The sea lion recovered from surgery during the rehabilitation process, responded well to antibiotics and it is ready to be returned to the ocean. He was successfully returned Jan. 22 to his ocean home. Learn more here: http://spr.ly/60028MWgs ► For SeaWorld tickets, special offers, passes, and package options: http://spr.ly/600883viu ► Subscribe to our channel for updates: http://spr.ly/600183viJ About SeaWorld San Diego: Located in San Diego’s scenic Mission Bay, SeaWorld is a world-class marine life adventure park. With awe-inspiring shows, thrilling rides and unforgettable face-to-face animal encounters, kids of all ages will enjoy exploring the wonders and adventures of the sea. Here you can watch exclusive videos highlighting our exciting rollercoasters, amazing shows, inspiring shows and unique festivals and events held throughout the year. SeaWorld is one of the leading marine animal rescue organizations in the world, having rescued more than 29,000 animals in 50+ years. A common bond between the parks is their commitment and dedication to marine conservation and guest education. ► Stay Connected With SeaWorld San Diego: Visit SeaWorld San Diego’s WEBSITE: http://spr.ly/600683vik Like SeaWorld San Diego on FACEBOOK: http://spr.ly/600583v9t Follow SeaWorld San Diego’s INSTAGRAM: http://spr.ly/600983v9x Follow SeaWorld on TWITTER: http://spr.ly/600783vi1