Reptile & Amphibian Forums

My tortoise was bitten by my roommates dog today (who happened to be visiting for the week). I found the dog sitting over the little guy. I immediately got him to the vet. He has a hole in his carapace and bruising in his plastron. They are giving him antibiotics and he seems to be stabalized.

The vet was talking about hemorrhaging and abscesses. Since he's so little they can't get a good x-ray on him to find out what's going on inside. I'm trying to keep my wits about me, but having no idea what's going on and if he'll make it is killing me.

Does anyone have any experience with tortoises and dog bites? He's only 6 months old and about 2 inches. I know that being so small his chances of survival decrease. However, he is relatively healthy. In fact, after he was bitten, he wouldn't stop walking around.

Can anyone tell me how long it might take to find out if he's bleeding internally? The vet isn't very experienced with tortoises and I currently have no way of getting to my normal vet who's an hour away.

I'm really worried I'll get my hopes up and he won't make it.

Thanks for any information. I just really need to hear something.

I would soak (warm not hot water) and keep him warm. See if you can at least call your vet (the regular one)and tell him what you've done and who saw him. He is likely to answer the question over the phone. my herp vet let's me email her such questions.

Also you could post your questions on Turtletimes.com

List in in the General First Aid section. THere are turtle people there who surf that board regularly and are very helpful. Also they may be able to hook you up to a good herp vet that is closer.

Good Luck!