Other Turtle Discussion :: Took Borris for first Vet Visit

[tmay1917]

A few weeks ago I became a RES owner and its been great. But after reading this forum and some others Borris didn't seem to be healthy. He was active and ate, but his shell just didn't seem good. I finally found a vet in my area who took reptiles and had great reviews from friends. The vet was shocked I brought him in and how big he was since I just bought him. After close examination she stated she found scarring on his shell which is what I was seeing. She said it would not hurt him any but it is not common for captive RES to have this. She said it seems that he was caught in the wild and someone made him a pet and it could have very well been the store since it is just a small town pet shop. She said sometimes she sees people who just do not take care of them and its sad but that too could have happened. She said it seems we know what we are doing good and that us adopting him from the pet store was the best we could do for Borris. Also she said he seems to be about 5 years old which is the same age as my daughter and she insists that they celebrate their birthdays at the same time. So October 5th will be his "birthday" to us. So happy he is healthy and found a vet who is awesome and answers all questions.

[steve]

What are the visible problems with his shell? I'm glad you've found an understanding vet, it's much harder than most people realize.

[tmay1917]

He had a small chip on the bottom of his shell, a smooth slightly lighter spot about 2cm along the edge of the top, and a couple of small dents that looked just like the rest of the shell just inward. She said to just watch the chip she said it looks fine and that it will heal on its on as long as we keep him on a healthy diet and that he basks. She said the rest were scars that could possibly go away because turtles get sick slow and heal slow. I am happy I found one too, It took some research it wasn't easy but I am happy with my choice she was very thorough, even took a tongue depressor and checked his throat which she said look healthy. And told us everything to watch for just in case something happens. Like I didn't know they could mites that resembled chiggers. She said that was more common with turtles that live outdoors or share a tank.

[steve]

I haven't heard of any mite issue before, sounds like Borris is in good hands

[tmay1917]

Thank you. I am so thankful for this forum without it I would of been so ignorant of what it took to take care of a RES.

[steve]

Thanks! We're glad to help