Final Disposition
Release on 28 Nov 1997
Buster may have stranded due to severe gastric distress (bloat). He was placed on prophylactic antibiotics and treated for possible nematode and trematode parasites.
Buster’s appetite and behavior were normal. The dolphin was released 2 weeks after being taken off antibiotics.
Follow-up:
Tracked via radio tag for <1 day
Lessons:
1- Stomach tube should be included in beach response gear.
2- Reducing fat in diet may aid in cases of elevated liver values.