Mystic Aquarium’s rescue program in its busy season. Here’s how to help
For a decade, Jessica Varrato of Wethersfield, Connecticut, has dedicated her life to animal rescue, beginning as a part-time volunteer and now working full-time with marine animals in need. Her journey exemplifies a profound career shift driven by passion, highlighting the critical work happening behind the scenes at institutions like Mystic Aquarium.
From Accounting to Animal Care
Varrato initially pursued a path in business and accounting but discovered her true calling through a volunteer opportunity with Mystic Aquarium’s animal rescue program in 2015. She “stumbled upon Mystic’s animal rescue program online” and quickly realized this was where she wanted to be. The program focuses on rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing sick, injured, and stranded marine animals along the coasts of Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Fishers Island, New York.
A Specialized Rescue Operation
The animal rescue program operates independently from the aquarium’s public exhibits. Its work extends beyond immediate care to include vital research, such as performing necropsies to identify potential illnesses and outbreaks. Animals treated include sea turtles, seals, and even whales, all with the ultimate goal of returning them to their natural habitats.
Sarah Callan, who leads the program, notes the team currently includes 45 clinic volunteers, two full-time staff members, two part-time staff members, and four on-call veterinarians. This growing team reflects an increasing demand for their services.
The Intensive Care Provided
The level of care provided is remarkably comprehensive. According to Callan, “Our animals get better health care than we do to be honest.” Animals receive individualized treatment plans documented in dedicated binders, mirroring hospital care for humans. They also undergo regular diagnostic testing, including radiographs and ultrasounds, and recently, the program acquired a CT machine to further enhance its capabilities.
Currently, the clinic is rehabilitating two young grey seal pups and 15 sea turtles. Last year, the program successfully released 22 seals and 27 sea turtles back into the wild, with volunteers even participating in releases as far away as Georgia.
Volunteers: The Backbone of the Operation
The program relies heavily on a network of volunteers. There are currently over 600 first responders who monitor beaches in Connecticut and Rhode Island for stranded or sick animals – a significant increase from 200 just two years ago. These first responders receive training and are crucial for initial assessment and reporting. Clinic volunteers commit to eight-hour weekly shifts for at least six months, assisting with tasks like cleaning, food preparation, and administering medication.
If the current trend of increasing volunteer numbers continues, the program could expand its reach and capacity for rescue and rehabilitation. Increased volunteer participation may also allow for more frequent training sessions and specialized skill development.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of animals does the Mystic Aquarium rescue program treat?
The program provides care for sea turtles, seals, and whales, with a focus on rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing them back into the wild.
How can someone become a volunteer with the program?
Interested individuals can email [email protected] or fill out an application at app.betterimpact.com.
When is the Mystic Aquarium animal rescue program busiest?
Winter is typically the busiest time of year, as many sea turtles become “cold-stunned” and grey seals enter pupping season, leading to an increase in stranded animals.
Considering the dedication of staff and volunteers, and the increasing need for marine animal rescue, what role do you think individuals can play in supporting these vital conservation efforts?