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Broken Shell Emergency Situation

turtlesong Oct 15, 2003 10:44 PM

Have found a male res about 5 inches in diameter. Its shell is broken in the bottom of its carapace which I think needs immediate mending but I don't know how.

The case is urgent because the turtle has a broken shell between the bottom of its head and left leg, with the injury extending about one and a half inches in length and a half an inch in width. Problem is, it's almost severed and will expose the animal in this vital area internally if not mended.

How can I glue this piece back together? Is ordinary glue okay to use on broken shells? What should I do? Let nature take its course?

Urget,

Mike

Replies (2)

Anita Oct 16, 2003 10:07 AM

Mike, hi, I'm a turtle rehabber and below is a link to my page at the Gulf Coast Turtle Society to tell you how to care for an injured turtle until you can get it to a qualified vet or rehabber. It does not give instuctions on repair. Shell repair is something that should be done by a knowledgeable vet or rehabber. Most of the time there is more to it than just sticking the pieces back together. This turtle will need antibiotic injections to prevent bacterial infection. Bacteria has entered the wound and you don't want to seal them inside. The turtle would eventually die. Sometimes the wound is deep enough to go into the body cavity. You can't always see that. Another thing, this turtle should be cared for throughout the winter and not sealed up and then released. Seal and release is a risky business. Many times the repairs need partial redo's later. Also the turtle may need more antibiotics in the future. Depending on the severity of the injury. Shells can take months and even years to heal. So if you aren't prepared to care for this turtle long term, (which I really don't recommend you do) you'd better get it to a rescue organization. Native aquatic species can usually be returned to the wild after healing and re-exam.

Try these other websites for names of herp groups and vet lists:

http://www.anapsid.org/societies/index.html
http://www.anapsid.org/vets/index.html
http://www.herpvetconnection.com/

Let me know if I can help further.
Anita
What to do if you find an injured or ill turtle.

Anita Oct 16, 2003 10:13 AM

I didn't give you the direct link to my care page. See this link.
GCTTS What to do if you find an injured or ill turtle.

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