Other Turtle Discussion :: Giving the babies shots

[scripta_elegans]

I am really kind of traumatized by giving these little tiny turtles shots. I cried after I did it this morning. The needle looks like a 30 gauge which is little for humans, but looks massive next to baby turtles. I don't think I have ever cried giving a shot to a human, but then you can expalin to a human why you are poking them. They only have 3 more days of antibiotic shots, they will hopefully recover. Poor babies! Has anyone else has to go through this that can comiserate, and give me a happy outcome?

[cprcheetah]

I haven't had to give Zeke shots yet, but being a Vet Tech it wouldn't be a problem with me...only things that get to me are bad breaks on bones, and some teeth extractions. I watched my dad give Zeke his Vit shot. Just curious what kind of drugs they gave you to give them.

[scripta_elegans]

it's Baytril, 0.05 cc QD per turtle. From what I have read the most common species associated with RI in turtles is P. arginosa. I know Baytril treats this particular bacteria, but I have not reall found if it is broader spectrum than just that organism. I know one of the human antibiotics which is comparable cipro works on a broader spectrum of organisms, but I feel a little lost with the turtles. I need to call the good vet back tomorrow. Thanks for the response!

[steve]

I'm sorry... I remember when my RES was a hatchling he was getting shots too (from the vet, not me). The vet injected him hard and he started to bleed a little. He then bit the vet (the first and only time he bit out of aggression), needless to say that was the last time I used them.

It may be tough, but these are potentially life-saving treatments. They won't hate you for it and they'll soon remember who gives them those delicious pellets.

[scripta_elegans]

Thanks for the comiserating! I'm glad he bit the vet. I wish one of them had bit the first vet we went to. He was an idiot. If he were a doctor, We'd be suing for malpractice.

[cprcheetah]

Baytril is a very powerful, broad spectrum antibiotic, and a drug of choice in exotics. It works great.

[scripta_elegans]

thanks! I was hoping so, but oddly i had trouble finding that info.