Reptile & Amphibian Forums

My partner's sister and husband found a box turtle floating in a manmade pond with high brick walls. He has what sounds like an abscess in one of its ears (they described it as a tumor, but most likely an abscess). They think someone put it in the pond as lots of people dump their res in there. I told them it might be a wild turtle that fell in as well, either way it needs some care. Although they say he has paint on him, and I do not know how common abscesses are in wild turtles.

Does anyone know of a rescue or somewhere they can take it? I do not live in the carolinas and cannot take it. They are willing drive a bit to bring it somewhere. I told them how to set it up in the meantime (rubbermaid container, dirt and a heat light, told them it would be ok not to get a UV if they are not going to have it long and to take outside a bit every day) and they are going to try and find a herp vet to have the abscess taken care of.

Thanks for any help.

Where in the Carolinas? They can call area vets and ask if they have the numbers for wildlife rehabbers in the area (preferably with reptile experience).
Or check out the link provided and call the the herp society or rescue for the appropriate state.
That should get you started.
Link

Um I don't remember where they are actually. They are willing to drive even a few hours away to get him somewhere. Hmm . . . I don't even remember if it is north or south carolina!

I know exactly where they should take the turtle! NC State University has a "Turtle Rescue Team" that rehabilitates turtles from all sorts of ill fates. It's a small facility at the Vet. School in Raleigh. Call them first, but I'm pretty sure that they'd be willing to take a turtle from South Carolina. That would be up to their discretion. The faculty advisor is Greg Lewbart...919-513-6439 (this phone # is public info.). There is a pager number for the member of the team that is on duty. I'll let Dr. Lewbart give that out if he wishes, I don't feel comfortable giving it out on the site. They also have an email address...again, I'll let him give this out. The one typical requirement is that you must drive the turtle to their location, which you said that they'd be comfortable doing.

They're wonderful people. I've met or spoken with most of them, but there are new people every year. They strive to release all turtles that they treat, so make a concerted effort to determine where the turtle came from.

The Carolinas don't have many other rescue and rehab organizations. Several on the coast are dedicated to Sea Turtles, but they most likely wouldn't treat a box turtle. A handful of individuals will rehab a turtle or two, but most have already reached capacity.

NC State's the best bet! I sure hope things work out!! Let us know.

I was hoping you'd see that post, Ken, 'coz I knew you'd have a great resource for them. That will save everyone a few phone calls, no doubt!
Thanks!

Stephanie

Thankyou, I have sent that information on to them.