Case Synopsis for MML 9708 aka FB402 aka Buster

Species: Tursiops truncatus  (hybrid coastal/offshore) (bottlenose dolphin)
Age Class: adult			Gender: Male
Date Stranded: 21 Sep 1997		
Location of Stranding:  Gulf side of Siesta Key, FL
Date of Arrival at MML: 22 Sep 1997
Number of Days of Care: 69
Final Disposition: Released on 28 Nov 1997
Followup: Tracked via radio tag for <1 day

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.

Lessons;
1- Stomach tube should be included in beach response gear.
2- Reducing fat in diet may aid in cases of elevated liver values.