Marine Animal Program of Friends of Animals

Marine Animal Rescue (MAR) serves as primary responder for all distressed marine mammals and sea bird in Los Angeles County. Since 1984, this group of seasoned rescuers has come to the aid of entangled or beached whales, dolphins, seals, sea lions and sea birds. MAR’s authorized territory is the coastline encompassing Marina del Rey (the world’s largest artificially created marina), the rocky cliffs of Palos Verdes, the crowded beaches of Venice and Santa Monica, and the busy port of San Pedro.

Under the direction of Peter Wallerstein, MAR has taken a limited system of rescue for marine animals in Los Angeles County and brought it to a level that makes it an international model. This success constantly furthers the mission of Marine Animal Rescue: to provide every animal the best possible chance to survive, return to freedom, and thrive. Marine Animal Rescue vigorously opposes the capture and confinement of healthy marine animals.

Animals rescued by MAR are assessed and treated by qualified veterinary personnel at a certified rehabilitation center, and returned to their natural habitat when their injuries heal or their good health is otherwise restored.

Marine Animal Rescue works in cooperation with the lifeguards, police, fire, and animal services departments of Los Angeles County. MAR participates in the national whale disentanglement network, and the group’s volunteers conduct count-wide educational presentations and outreach.

Friends of Animals and Marine Animal Rescue share the vision of a world where free-living animals experience life on their terms, protected as far as possible from human hazards. Support MAR’s vital rescue work.