What to do if you find an injured turtle
Do:
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Find a veterinarian or wildlife rehabilitator ASAP who is experienced in turtle care (click here for a list of wildlife rehabilitators)
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People inexperienced in turtle care may provide inappropriate care or assume euthanasia is the only solution.
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Put the turtle into a container he/she cannot crawl out of.
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Do not put the injured turtle with any other animals including other turtles.
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Place a damp towel or damp paper towels on the bottom of the container.
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Put the turtle in a quiet place.
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When transporting to a veterinarian or wildlife rehabilitator, cover the turtle container – human contact can be stressful to wild animals.
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Note exactly where the turtle was found so it can be returned after recovery.
Don’t:
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Do NOT remove healthy turtles from the wild. Turtles can sometimes heal from injuries and scars may be present in recovered individuals.
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Do NOT put the turtle in water.
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Do NOT attempt to repair or clean the fracture site.
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Do NOT put ointment on the fracture site.
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Do NOT put the turtle outside of your house– The purpose of this is to avoid fly strikes.
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If the turtle cannot be brought inside, put them in the shade and cover the container they are in.
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If you need to hold the turtle overnight before transporting them, the turtle must be kept in a safe place where nocturnal predators (raccoons) can’t get them.
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