I would not recommend anyone doing these medical procedures without proper training. Yes, box turtles' heads can be easily drawn out with the proper technique. However, many box turtles will fight you to the point of injury if done incorrectly. I deal with a lot of injured wild box turtles, and it can take up to 1/2 of an hour to extract the heads of some. My method of sedation requires injecting anesthesia in the vein that runs on top of their neck. I've received training both in my career as a vet-tech and from the "Turtle Rescue Team" at NC State University. I'm sure that you can find someone who is willing to help you learn...always try wildlife rehabbers. I'd be more than happy to help you if I could. If you're ever in NC during the warmer months, schedule a trip to the NC State Vet School "Turtle Rescue Team". They have a website. Tell them you're interested in learning rehab techniques. The people that I met were VERY friendly and accomodating.

As far as ear abscesses, it can be very dangerous to let them run their course. The inner ear is in close proximity to the brain of the turtle, and infections can spread. That's kind of a stretch, I know. Also, ear abscesses are very commonly associated with upper respiratory infections. The novice keeper may only notice a little fatique and the 'monstrous bumps on the side of the head'. Also, if anyone has dealt with maggots before, I feel your pain. Abscesses, when they begin to rupture, are a maggot's dream! When an ear abscess surgery is done, the turtle must be brought in and kept in aseptic conditions and have topical antibiotics slathered on the open wound. A turtle left outside either post surgery or after you allow the abscess to fall off is a magnet for flies and maggots. It's a NIGHTMARE. Surgery and post-op care provide protections against both flies and other infections.

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