NewTortMom1
New Member
Hi everyone!
I would appreciate any suggestions and insights. I run a animal rescue, primarily dogs and farm animals. We occasionally take in reptiles, though I am no expert. Our policy with reptiles is that we reach out to other reputable exotic rescues and if we take them in, they go straight to the vet. It’s so rare we take in reptiles. One day ago we were contacted by someone who threatened to put three Sulcata babies into the woods if we didn’t take them that day since he was going on vacation for the holidays. It’s not my job to call his bluff so I agreed and picked them up immediately. Called the exotics vet and they cannot get me in until after the holidays. I also ordered a tortoise house (though I know they need much more space!) right now they are in separate bins on wee wee pads. We placed a large Chewy order and are waiting for everything to arrive. We had a new UVB and new bulb and heat lamp. I ran to the store to buy tortoise food and they have been munching on Kale, Mustard and Dandelion Greens which is just what I had on hand. I intend on building a custom enclosure and when they get older I will build a proper outside and very secure enclosure. They are eating a lot and very active. However, I noticed a very thin and dry pink line straight down the middle of their plastron. I of course googled this and unsure if it could be Septicemia? I’m very aware of the pyramiding and indents all over their plastron. Oh lord, I’m aware how the horrid conditions were when I picked them up. They were living in a 20 gallon tank in this dude’s garage, but he handed them to me in a little plastic to go bin. One thing at a time. Does this look like Septicemia? They all have it. It’s faint. And just thin down the center of their tummy’s. There are no splotches of red anywhere. Not lethargic or acting sick. Nothing that looks like Septicemia and they are acting “healthy”. I examined their necks and shells. They are very active, solid BIG poops, drinking, eating, basking. I soaked them for 30 minutes. I guess I won’t have any certain answers on what it is until after their vet visit, but of course I’m worrying. I’m a worrier.
Also they are on the small side. Ughhh I was told they are almost a year old
Can I help them? Like I said, they are acting fine.
Yes, I am running to the pet shop tomorrow to buy proper bedding and new lighting. This was just what I had on hand and I’m doing plenty of research. Once they get to the vet I will begin building a very large indoor enclosure or purchase something large from Tractor supply.
Thank you.
I would appreciate any suggestions and insights. I run a animal rescue, primarily dogs and farm animals. We occasionally take in reptiles, though I am no expert. Our policy with reptiles is that we reach out to other reputable exotic rescues and if we take them in, they go straight to the vet. It’s so rare we take in reptiles. One day ago we were contacted by someone who threatened to put three Sulcata babies into the woods if we didn’t take them that day since he was going on vacation for the holidays. It’s not my job to call his bluff so I agreed and picked them up immediately. Called the exotics vet and they cannot get me in until after the holidays. I also ordered a tortoise house (though I know they need much more space!) right now they are in separate bins on wee wee pads. We placed a large Chewy order and are waiting for everything to arrive. We had a new UVB and new bulb and heat lamp. I ran to the store to buy tortoise food and they have been munching on Kale, Mustard and Dandelion Greens which is just what I had on hand. I intend on building a custom enclosure and when they get older I will build a proper outside and very secure enclosure. They are eating a lot and very active. However, I noticed a very thin and dry pink line straight down the middle of their plastron. I of course googled this and unsure if it could be Septicemia? I’m very aware of the pyramiding and indents all over their plastron. Oh lord, I’m aware how the horrid conditions were when I picked them up. They were living in a 20 gallon tank in this dude’s garage, but he handed them to me in a little plastic to go bin. One thing at a time. Does this look like Septicemia? They all have it. It’s faint. And just thin down the center of their tummy’s. There are no splotches of red anywhere. Not lethargic or acting sick. Nothing that looks like Septicemia and they are acting “healthy”. I examined their necks and shells. They are very active, solid BIG poops, drinking, eating, basking. I soaked them for 30 minutes. I guess I won’t have any certain answers on what it is until after their vet visit, but of course I’m worrying. I’m a worrier.
Also they are on the small side. Ughhh I was told they are almost a year old
Can I help them? Like I said, they are acting fine. Yes, I am running to the pet shop tomorrow to buy proper bedding and new lighting. This was just what I had on hand and I’m doing plenty of research. Once they get to the vet I will begin building a very large indoor enclosure or purchase something large from Tractor supply.
Thank you.
