Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I just got a box turtle from a family member because its sick,
It's eye's are sealed shut, it's very dried out looking. Any suggestions on anything I can do for it before I head to the pet store where my turtle came from for help!
I've been soaking it, and dabbing its eye's with a warm damp paper towel, this has worked for other turtles I've treated but there's had just started, I dont know how long this little ones eye's have been like this. any help would be very greatly appreciated.

Sounds like the turtle had poor humidity and no access to water. The turtle needs to be soaked in a few inch's of water (bathtub or sink) for an hour or so to help rehydrate. Its possible the turtle now has a respitory infection which would need the help of a qualified reptile vet.

Thanks, I have been soaking it, and it is very dry, but seems to be improving, I havent left it an hour though didnt know how long so only did like 15 minutes at a time every few hours.

15 minutes every few hours will work to. I think the biggest problem most new boxie owners have is humidity. They need a constant humidty of 60 to 80% at all times. Plus they ALWAYS need access to water. That why many others and I all house our boxies outdoors. Indoors is not good to raise a box turtle.

If your turtle shows any signs of respitory infection which would include lack of appitite, bubbles out of nose, puss out of mouth, or eyes stuck shut you might want to think about getting your turtle to a vet.

I keep a bottle of turtle eye clear around for both my turtles. Tetra makes it as well as some other people. Sometimes mine get dirt in their eyes etc. And this clears them right up. Its kind of like clear eyes for turtles.

Please, please.... I can't encourage you enough to take this turtle to the vet. If you wait too long you will not be able to save the little guy. I say this especially since you don't know how long he has been like this. The vet can give him vitamins and antibiotics correct for his size. Also, they can give hydrating injection which will jump start the little guy. Then continue you on with soaking and high humidity.