Injured sea lion rescued in La Jolla

LA JOLLA (CNS) – A sea lion with a gaff pole stuck in its back was rescued in La Jolla Sunday.

Witnesses reported seeing the injured creature this morning and SeaWorld personnel responded and rescued it, according to reports from the scene.

Rescuers tranquilized the 200-pound animal, which had the metal hook of a 10-foot gaff pole stuck three inches into its body.

The hook was removed and the sea lion will undergo treatment until it can be freed into the ocean, possibly next week, according to broadcast reports.

It was unclear exactly how the animal ended up injured, but SeaWorld Senior Veterinarian Dr. Todd Schmitt said a fisherman probably was to blame.