Photo: (Getty)
I have good news and bad news. The bad news: this story includes an injured baby sea lion. But don't start crying or run away from this article: the good news is that the baby sea lion has been rescued, is doing well, and is getting long distance love from Jenna Dewan-Tatum.
The animal rights activist and actress Tweeted:
what a cutie! but why people why? Respect nature RT @huffpostgreen: Blind sea lion pup finds new home at aquarium huff.to/106bnUq
— Jenna Dewan-Tatum (@jennaldewan) January 18, 2013
Cruz is a sea lion pup who was shot last July. No one knows who shot him -- it might have even been done for target practice -- but the bullets caused him to go blind. Thankfully he was rescued by people who had spotted his unresponsive body.
And here's courageous Cruz. We love him!! (Shedd Aquarium/Brenna Hernandez)
Recently the marine youngster got a new home at the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago, where he'll be protected and cared for the rest of his life. Because of his blindness, he can't be released back into the wild. Rescuers typically like to release injured animals after recovery, but Cruz's blindness makes him a special case: he wouldn't be able to get himself food or see predators.
While at his new home, Cruz will be given special rehabilitation with trainers and veterinarians. You can see why Jenna's heart goes out to Cruz. He had something horrible done to him, but he's a survivor getting lots of love now. And he's totally adorbs!
If you ever see animal cruelty taking place, it's important to report it. That way abused animals can get another chance like Cruz -- and totally steal your heart too!