A dolphin found stranded on Blooming Point Beach in October was determined to be infested with parasites following a necropsy examination. Tonya Wimmer, co-executive director of the Marine Animal Response Society, revealed that the dolphin suffered from severe pneumonia caused by a heavy infestation of lungworms, leading to breathing difficulties.
The distress call regarding the stranded female common dolphin was received on the evening of October 10, 2025. Initial observations by on-site witnesses indicated that the dolphin appeared to be in relatively good condition. Fisheries officials responded to the scene about an hour later, finding the dolphin still alive but struggling to breathe.
Due to late hours, windy weather conditions, and safety concerns for humans, officials made the difficult decision to postpone rescue efforts until the next morning. Unfortunately, by the time reassessment could be conducted, the dolphin had passed away. Provincial staff retrieved the carcass and transferred it to the Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative for further examination at the Atlantic Veterinary College in Charlottetown.
Veterinarians conducting the necropsy discovered additional flatworms, known as trematodes or flukes, in the dolphin’s ears. These parasites likely caused disorientation, contributing to the stranding event. Wimmer emphasized that the overall health of the dolphin was severely compromised, making it unfit for rehabilitation and release back into the wild.
The presence of parasites and the dolphin’s solitary status raised concerns, as dolphins typically travel in groups. Wimmer highlighted that wildlife, whether on land or in water, can sometimes become disoriented and stranded. She stressed the importance of proper responses to stranding incidents and commended the public for their caring and passionate attitudes towards animal welfare in such situations.