Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hi I haven't posted here before, but I may be in need of help. I just acquired a baby herman's tortoise about a week ago. I just put him outside in a custom pen for some basking. I had checked him several times, but after about fifeteen minutes I went back again. He was out of his pen( which is about 4" tall) and walking on the patio. I am not sure what got to him, but his shell(around his neck) has been "nibbled" on. He seems fine and all of his appendages are fine. He is not bleeding at all. His shell is just serrated around the head region. Is there anything that I should do. I think that I should take him to the vet, but I would like advice other than that please. I really think that a mouse got to him. Thank You
Brandon

It has been about an hour and he is eating again. I think this is a good sign. Is there anything I should put on the shell.

If it is very minor damage you could just put some antibiotic ointment like Neosporin once or twice a day until healed. Keep it clean. Should be OK. If a bad odor develops that means infection and then should be taken to a vet. I guess there is no oozy stuff to attract flys right? You don't want maggots. Oozy means keep inside a few days until dry. Be careful a rat could cause significant damage to a small tortoise.
Gulf Coast Turtle & Tortoise Society

I assume that you have plans for enlarging the barrier that consists of your tortoises enclosure. Consider putting a mesh ceiling on it as well to keep cats, racoons ect out.
As for the wound, a general rule of thumb is if it's bleeding, oozing a discharge (signs that the wound is full thickness) then a vet visit is warranted, even if the outcome is just preventative of infection.
If you decide the wound does not warrant a vet visit (hard to gage without pic's) then keep the area clean. Polysporin twice daily may help; I prefer Hibitane Ointment (a chlorhexidine product) for any minor knicks and abrasions.
If you think anything stronger is needed, your vet will prescribe such after a thorough examination deams it appropriate.
Hope this helps
Ian
Animal Health Technologist

thank you for your replies. I think he is going to be okay. I will take your advice with the antibiotic ointment. Will the shell grow back to normal???