Thank goodness you took him in-even if the poor thing is beyond help, at least he won't die in a dirty tank full of poop!

As you know red eared sliders are aquatic and should have warm water and a haul out basking area under lights. They eat in water and so the tank needs a filter. I don't know how big this turtle is but a tank with enough room for him to swim around, plus a small haul out area should hold him--15-20 gallons? The haul out could be something as simple as floating cork board. Get a good book or go online and find a care sheet. Red-eared sliders are common pets as they have an active personality and will eat well once they are warm and in clean water.

The heavy breathing could be bad, or it may just mean he is happy he can't smell the stinkers he was living with. If you are concerned then PLEASE take him to a vet. Turtles can be saved with a short antibiotic treatment and live long lives with decent care.

Thanks for helping this creature in need! Good luck, Tess

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