MML 9711-A-D were 4 dolphins which were part of a mass stranding of 62 animals. They were cared for near the stranding site until they could be transported to MML. MML 9711-A and B were released on 25 March 1998. MML 9711-C was euthanized on 21 Dec.

Donner was extremely agitated throughout transport despite aggressive sedation with diazepam. Presumably she had been separated from her calf which died (since no other calves were sent to rehab facilities). The dolphin presented in good body condition with neutrophilia, elevated liver values, pneumonia, possible kidney disease, tachycardia, heat necrosis of left axilla. Donner died almost immediately upon arrival and necropsy revealed kidney failure, cardiovascular disease, and possible mercury intoxication.

Final Disposition: Died within 0.5 hr of arrival
Cause of Death: kidney failure and cardiovascular disease
Other findings: Suggestive mercury intoxication (depletion of granule neurons in cerebellum).
 

Lessons:1- Stenos are a very social, schooling species showing epimeletic behavior
2- Transporting multiple dolphins in water-filled container (raft) worked well and reduced the stress level for the dolphins.
3- This species often decapitates fish; messy eaters.
4- Flying fish appears to be a normal food item; if unavailable try ballyhoo.
5- Aspirin 1-2 mg/kg sid po may prevent blood clots in dolphins; watch for possible developing anemia
6- Stenos require warm water (75-80 F). Providing warm water likely aided in their recovery.

Presentations
Manire, C. A., and H. L. Rhinehart. "The use of human recombinant erythropoietin for the treatment of nonregenerative anemia in the rough-toothed dolphin, Steno bredanensis." Oral presentation at the International Association for Aquatic Animal Medicine 30th annual conference, Boston, MA. 1999.

Rhinehart, H. L., C. A. Manire, J. D. Buck, P. Cunningham-Smith, and D. R. Smith. "Observations and rehabilitation of rough-toothed dolphins, Steno bredanensis, treated at Mote Marine Laboratory from two separate stranding events." Poster presentation at the 13th biennial Conference on the Biology of Marine Mammals, Maui, HI. 1999.

Wells, R. S., C. A. Manire, H. L. Rhinehart, D. R. Smith, A. Westgate, F. Townsend, T. Rowles, A Hohn, and L. Hansen. "Ranging patterns of rehabilitated rough-toothed dolphins, Steno bredanensis, released in the northeastern Gulf of Mexico." Oral presentation at the 13th Biennial Conference on the Biology of Marine Mammals, Maui, HI. 1999.