Reptile & Amphibian Forums

A coworker of mine has found a small gopher tortoise that his dog has bit. It has apparently two puncture wounds on top of his shell. He is bringing me the tortoise and I've already called a vet and will take him in. Has anyone ever had a similar situation and what are this little guys chances? He is moving and looks fine from what I understand except for the puncture wounds. I of course have two problems, one I don't want to break the law(not supposed to mess with gophers in Florida). Second I can't not help. Any suggestions? I'm all ears. I'm also going to contact the local wildlife shelter.
Chad

Chances are most likely excellent that he/she will recover, especially with quick medical attention. Tortoises are tougher than we think. Your best bet is to see if you can get a referral to a rehabber from either the vet or the wildlife rescue center. That way, you won't get in trouble for being a Good Samaritan. Good luck to both you and the tortoise!
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Sohni

0.1 Baja de L.A. Rosy Boa
0.1 Okeetee Corn Snake
1.1 Rubber Boas
1.0 Leopard Gecko
0.0.1 Hermann's Tortoise
0.0.1 Marginated Tortoise
1.0 3 Toed Box Turtle (rescued)
plus my kids' herps:
0.1 California King Snake
1.0 Mexican Rosy Boa
0.1 Leopard Gecko

The laws are written to protect the animals from exploitation/harm.
Most of the people that I've met that work for F/W or F/G are animal people.
They usually fully understand that people are saviors in general and would probably help you in one way or another... such taking the animal or referring you to someone who will help you (and another animal rehabber it born).
You whould be amazed at what these guys can handle. If the shell is not crushed or the lung (under the top portion of the shell) is not punctured it will probably be fine with little care.
They are tough.
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Ed
Tortoise_Keepers-subscribe@yahoogroups.com
Trying to keep the fun in Chelonian care