My softshell got very sick with red streaks...I took him to the vets where my dog goes and even though they didn't have much info on softshells, the vet was able to treat him with antibotics (I gave him injections for three weeks)and he recovered completely...even though he looked like he would die....also, make sure he has a ramp with a uv light....for basking...they need this to heal themselves...really works...I have a Powersun uv...100w....I can't stress this enough for their health and recovery