From the outset we always knew we were up against it, and the odds were slim that we could rescue this whale.

We were very worried about its condition, as its respiratory rate was too high. Unfortunately it did deteriorate very quickly.

Sadly, as is the case with many stranded whales and dolphins, a combination of factors was likely to be the cause of death. Those factors include severe dehydration, some muscle damage, and reduction in kidney function. The animal, once entering the North Sea, would not have been able to feed, and this is the likely cause of the dehydration.

When I was actually drawing the lethal injection, she died.

Hopefully this highlights the need and desire to conserve whale species in general.

The Australian Book of Etiquette is a very slim volume.