Seal mauled in ‘vicious’ Thames dog attack may have to be put down

A seal attacked by a dog in front of shocked onlookers on the banks of the Thames may have to be put down after suffering severe injuries including a dislocated flipper, vets said on Monday night.

The animal - named Freddie Mercury by locals - had been entertaining residents for more than a week after he began sun bathing at low tide on the Thames river near Hammersmith Bridge.

But on Sunday, a dog sprinted down to the river and attacked him.

Nearby locals quickly intervened and held Freddie down as they waited for animal rescue services to arrive, after which the two animals were separated.

Duncan Phillips, 55, who was photographing the seal before the incident, told My London news that “it was quite a vicious attack.”

“The dog just wouldn’t let go,” he added.

According to the South Essex Wildlife Hospital, who are currently treating Freddie, a British Divers Marine Life Rescue medic attended the scene before the London Fire brigade transported the seal to Tilbury docks where they picked him up.

On Monday, a hospital spokesman said on Facebook: “At this stage, we believe the only ethical and fair option we have is to end his suffering.”

Freddie’s swollen flipper is fractured and the joint dislocated.

Although an attempt could be made to pin the fracture, it would be impossible to immobilise the limb to give it time to heal.

Despite antibiotics and pain relief, the seal is clearly very uncomfortable and reluctant to eat.

Vets suspect the infection is spreading. With other bite wounds to his body, Freddie is very miserable.

The spokesman added: “We know this is a well-loved seal from the amazing response we have had to his story, but he is not the only seal we have had to care for that this has happened to.

“Please folks do not go near seals and always, always, keep dogs on leads and under control.”

Freddie had originally been rescued as a newborn last year in the Netherlands but he was rescued again in France and now twice in the UK, the animal hospital added.

Since the incident, locals have taken to twitter to voice their concerns.

BBC news presenter, Sophie Raworth, tweeted saying: “The seal by Hammersmith Bridge in London that has been charming people for more than 10 days has been attacked by a dog.”

Another user said: “Sad to say the seal was injured today by a dog off a lead. Waiting for a rescue boat.”