Arrived on scene at about 11.45, Coatguards were on scene as were the RSPCA, Police and another medic Daniel. After assessing the porpoise and having a vet checking him out, it was decided to move him to Pegwell Bay and try to re float him. We could not have done it at Westbook as the wind was to strong and the surf to high, the porpoise would not have swam through the surf. Whilst the main reason for a dolphin, porpoise or whale to beach is illness the vet felt that this porpoise was in pretty good shape.With the aid of all those on site and also the Wild Animal Rescue Unit from Kent Fire and Rescue Service we move him to Pegwell where the surf was a lot less. The team spent over an hour or so in the water trying to encourage the porpoise to swim off. The light started to fade and he was also rolling to his left side, muscle tremor and kept turning to shore. All of these were indications that the porpoise was not as well as first thought. The vet decided that the best course of action would be to, Sadly, put him to sleep.
It is was a very sad moment for all those involved but clearly the very best thing for the porpoise. Also I hope all can take solice knowing that we had all done all we could to try and save him.
I have included a couple of pictures taken by Simon Mores, thank you to him for his permission to use them, there is also a link to a video shot at Pegwell by Abmetechmedia, again thanks to them.
See you soon
Jon
