Dog owners have been urged to keep an eye out for seals when visiting beaches in Cornwall with their pets.

The National Animal Welfare Trust (NAWT) has teamed up with The Sea Life Trust - Cornish Seal Sanctuary, to raise awareness of the harm that can be caused to seals by dogs and their toys.

The charity has warned of the dangers of ring-style frisbees, which can cause life-threatening injuries to wildlife if left behind.

These frisbees are often thrown into the sea for dogs to chase, but they can float away and get lost.

Seals are particularly at risk, as they can become entangled in the frisbees, which can lead to a prolonged and painful death.

Rescuers saved the life of a grey seal on the Cornish coastline after it was found with a ring-style frisbee stuck around its neck (Image: Sea Life Trust) Last year, a grey seal known as 'Wings' was rescued from the Cornish coastline after being found with a ring-style frisbee stuck around its neck.

The Seal Sanctuary has issued a warning about the increasing problem of ring-style frisbees across the country.

The NAWT is keen to help the Seal Sanctuary spread the word among dog owners about how the local sea life can be better protected.

This is particularly important during the grey seal pup season, which runs from September to March.

Tamara Cooper, curator at the Cornish Seal Sanctuary, has given advice on how to behave around pups if you encounter one.

Tamara has advised dog owners to keep off any beach where a pup has been found, keep dogs on lead, keep their distance from the pup and mum, and if anyone sees a pup, keep out of sight and remain as quiet as possible to give mum and pup the best chance of remaining together.

If you are concerned about a pup, the Cornish Seal Sanctuary and BDMLR can be contacted for advice and assistance on 01326 221361 or 01825 765546 respectively.