The Conservation Regulator is seeking information from the public after a fatally injured Australian fur seal was found on McCrae Beach following a dog attack on Monday 9 October 2023.

Conservation Regulator Authorised Officers are investigating the incident following a report from the Melbourne Zoo Marine Response Unit (MRU) who were alerted to a wounded juvenile fur seal by a member of the public. MRU attended the beach at 10:30am but found the animal had already died as a result of its injuries.

MRU assessed the body at the beach and noted the seal had sustained puncture wounds to its body and flippers. A subsequent vet assessment at Melbourne Zoo confirmed the seal had suffered severe trauma from a dog attack and was the most likely cause of death.

The Conservation Regulator is urging anyone with information to report it confidentially to Crime Stoppers Victoria on 1800 333 000 or crimestoppersvic.com.au

All wildlife in Victoria, including seals, are protected by law and it is an offence if your dog chases, attacks or injures wildlife. Pet owners face penalties of up to $4,807 under the Wildlife Act 1975 and up to $48,077 or 12 months in prison under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986.

Additional penalties up to $3,846 apply under the Wildlife (Marine Mammals) Regulations 2019 to dog owners who allow their pets within 30 metres of a seal.