A sick sea lion pup climbed aboard family’s boat off the coast of San Clemente and hitched a ride to shore — and into the waiting arms of animal rescuers.
The malnourished pup swam onto Matthew Miller’s sailboat as he was out on the water with his 11-year-old daughter Ellie on January 24.
Miller sensed trouble when the sea lion leapt off their swim step but scrambled back moments later. He and his daughter then contacted the Pacific Marine Mammal Center.
After reviewing photos, rescue team “determined the pup was underweight and displaying abnormal behavior,” according to a recent post from the Pacific Marine Mammal Center.
“He was frail,” Miller told CBS Los Angeles.
“He was very, very docile. Very calm, and he hung out on our boat for like a good 30 minutes.”
When the sailors and new friend reached Dana Point Harbor, the tired pup had fallen asleep and was rescued by the PMMC team, with help from the Dana Point Harbor Patrol. He arrived at the marine center’s hospital weighing just 39 pounds and showed signs of malnutrition and pneumonia.
Ellie was given the chance to name the little sea lion, whom she called “Chump.” Veterinarians and volunteers are keeping a watchful eye on the pup, treating his pneumonia and serving him three large meals a day to help him regain strength.
“Little Chump has been receiving the best care at Pacific Marine Mammal Center. As a thank you for their compassionate response, we welcomed the family for a private tour to see Chump during his rehabilitation,” the marine center said.
“I can tell he’s just bouncing back,” Miller added to CBS Los Angeles. “He’s happy. He’s thriving. He’s healthy. He’s got a girlfriend in there. It’s like Happy Valentine’s Day, Chump.”