snapper with a cracked carapace.

BreellaBlue87

BreellaBlue87

2009: The year of the Bat
Dec 8, 2008
338
0
0
38
Central New York
On my way to work this morning I stopped to help a turtle across the road-- then I noticed the half inch crack in it's shell, very close to the spine.

Other than keeping it clean and dry, is there something else I can do to help it heal so I can release her back out?

Note: I have had snappers in the past, I know proper handling and care, but never had one get hit by a car before...
 
My best suggestion is to call both the DNR and veterinarians in you area and find a qualified wildlife rehabilitator. There is a lot more to keeping it clean and dry. There are potentially internal injuries and a HUGE potential for infection. The turtle needs a round of antibiotics and a fiberglass patch in the very least.

Kristina
 
I've never had to deal with fixing a water turtle's cracked shell but I have had luck with duct tape and wood shims to fix cracked Box and Wood Turtle shells.
 
epoxy wouldnt be a bad idea. it dries hard as rock. i use it when making fiber optic connectors to glue the fiber to the termini. im sure 5-min epoxy from walmart or lowes would work the next time.
 
I feel so bad for her. Why a person would just leave her there on the road I don't know.
 
I think the kindest thing you can do here is to euthanize.

Kristina
 
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