General Care Discussion :: I may be adopting another orphan turtle....

[kneenuh]

So the doctor that helped me rescue April, wants me to adopt another turtle!!!

I'm not sure what's going on, but all I know is that the turtle needs one of its legs amputated. I have no idea why at this point, my communication has been limited to phone messages. The RES basically will be euthanized if I don't take it.

I don't know what leg is going to be amputated, but has anyone ever had experience with an RES with only three legs? How do they cope? And would a front leg be better than a hind leg?

I know I should be asking my doctor these questions, but he didn't even know how to determine if it was a female or a male but he would "find out for me." he's a fantastic doctor. It's just he's only two years out of school and more of a cat and dog doctor......

Also I'm worried that if it's a male, he'll breed with my female, and I really don't want to bring babies into this world....

[kneenuh]

okay I found out that it's a front leg...but that's all I know for now.

[kneenuh]

or maybe.....is there anyone in the LA area that would like to save a turtle's life? you wouldn't have to pay for any of the medical fees!!!

[SpotsMama]

a couple of people on here have had handicapped turtles. There's not a lot of info but here's what I found:

http://www.redearslider.com/forum/viewt ... andicap%2A

http://www.redearslider.com/forum/viewt ... andicap%2A

http://www.redearslider.com/forum/viewt ... andicap%2A

http://www.redearslider.com/forum/viewt ... andicap%2A

Good luck! I'll be thinking of you!

[kneenuh]

Thank you spotsmama, I'll have a look at those

[RunninWideOpen]

How big is the turtle?

Does anyone know how well a handicapped turtle would get along with two adult healthy turtles? I wouldn't mind taking him but you might have a better situation to offer the turt than I do.

I'm about 2-3 hours from la.

[scripta_elegans]

I think a turtle misssing a leg would probably get picked on by the others if they are in the same tank. Turtles tend to be both territorial and competitive. If they think they can push him around, they will.

[kneenuh]

yeah I'm over 5 hours away from LA....I don't think I can get down there anytime soon....

I have only a 40 gallon tank right now. I'm saving for a 120, but it will be a few months. Two turtles in one tank that's already too small for one....