Chance the Turtle.

Meet Chance, the Eastern Box Turtle.   A wildlife rehabilitator brought him to our office for treatment of injuries to is shell from being struck by a car. 

 X-rays were taken to determine the extent of the damage to his shell and look for any evidence of internal injuries. 

 After anesthetizing Chance, the fracture site was cleaned of any debris and an antibiotic cream was applied.  Small pilot holes were drilled in his shell on either side of the Fracture.  Stainless steel screws were carefully placed in the shell. 

Orthodontic wire was looped between screws on opposite sides of the shell fracture.  The wire was tightened until the edges of the fracture were close enough to allow for healing.  

In addition to letting the shell heal, reducing the fracture provides stability and will dramatically cut down on pain.  

One last x-ray shows the fracture has been reduced. Chance was given pain medication, an antibiotic and some fluids and then  allowed him to wake up from anesthesia. 

Chance the next morning, enjoying a nice slice of Tomato.  He will be returned to the wildlife rehabilitator and will need to be cared for until his shell heals & he can be released back in to the wild!

This post is dedicated to the memory of Di Conger of Last Chance Wildlife, who passed away last week.  Di was a licensed wildlife rehabilitator who cared for countless small animals over many years.  She is already sorely missed.