General Care Discussion :: Turtle...help???

[Jynx520]

My Aunt has seen a turtle in her backyard quite often. It is not her pet, but when she saw what happened, she wanted to help. The turtle has two big bulges on either side of its head. I looked it up and I think it is some sort of ear infection or something, but i wanted to confirm it. A picture is below.

I didn't want to post this in urgent care, since it is a wild turtle. HOWEVER, is there anything my aunt could possible do to help it? She hates to see it like this.....

Thanks!!!


and, yes, i know this is not a RES, but i needed some help, and I didn't know where else to go......

[steve]

Those are very large ear abscess. If she can bring it to a herp vet, they might treat it free of charge. Also ask a rescue, they might have experience in treating them (which usually requires lancing, draining and scooping out the material).

[Jynx520]

Okay, I will make sure she knows that. Thanks so much! Is there anything she can do in the mean time if she can't do anything right away??

[steve]

There really isn't anything she can do. If a vet does see it, make sure they know she wants it returned to where it currently is.

[Jynx520]

Okay, thank you!

[Zorce]

We dont have those wild in my area. Is that a native turtle to the area? Looks more like someone may have dumped the poor guy.

[marisa]

That poor boxie---those are really large ear abcesses... and they really should be treated by a herp vet.

You didn't indicate where you are, but a herp vet should know of a rehabber, who would assume care after the procedure. A rehabber will want to know where the turtle was found so that the turtle can be released back to where it originally was. You might also do a search to see if there are any reptile rehabbers relatively near you. If so, you could hand the turtle to the rehabber (rehabbers work with vets), who would see that the turtle is treated and released. Even if you are the one to bring the turtle to the vet, there should be no charge for treating wildlife; you will not receive the turtle back, however.