Do not harass, scare, or separate mothers from offspring. Boats should not come closer than 100 yards of marine mammals. To report stranded marine mammals Dead or dying marine mammals can aid important research. If you find a stranded marine mammal, note the exact location and the condition of the animal. It's the law.
Human encroachment can stress the pup and scare the mother and other adult seals away.
Image courtesy of Washington Sea Grant Program. For your safety and the health of the pup, leave the pup alone. Do not try to feed a pup. Do not try to force a pup into the water. Keep pets and children away from a pup.