Shell & Soaking Questions from a new owner

[carbonated]

About a week ago I adopted a 4 month old Hermann's tortoise who I very unoriginally named Herman Here's a pic of him climbing out of a tray I was soaking him in.

He's adjusting well, seems to be used to me, and eats quite a bit. I have two questions though.

First off; his shell. I was told that a previous owner of his wasnt taking care of him at all, and when the person I got him from got a hold of him she found that he has a dent in his shell. It looks almost as if someone pushed their finger in. It doesnt seem to be bothering him or hurting him; he's a pretty happy little guy. However, I'm wondering if theres something I should do to help it "heal" or get back to normal, and if it will inhibit his growth or development. Here are a few pics:



(click either to zoom in)

Second question: I keep reading that when you soak your tortoises they "void" themselves; I soak herman for 15-20 minutes each day, in lukewarm water up to his chin, and he's never done so. He seems to enjoy the soak, and does drink and wander around, but I'm wondering if thats something to worry about.

Thanks in advance, this is a great forum!

 

[Yvonne G]

Hi carbonated:

Welcome to the Tortoise Forum!!

May we know your name and where you are?

That looks to me like some sort of fungus growing there. Can you scrape off the loose-looking stuff? If it is fungus, athlete's foot creme will help it.

 

[Torty Mom]

My little ones hardly ever go potty in their soaks. I wouldn't worry!

 

[Tom]

I agree about the possible fungus, but it also looks to me like something fell on him and punched in that scute. It will probably be fine and hardly noticeable as he grows, but there is really no way to tell that for sure.

I wouldn't worry about the pooping in the soaks either. Some of them do and some don't. Most of the time they will start to do it after a while. No big deal if he doesn't.

 

[laramie]

I try to soak Wilbur everyday for 25 minutes in luke warm water. He does sometimes go number 2 while soaking. I think it is common, the water makes them feel more comfortable. Herman is very cute, congrats.

 

[AnthonyC]

Herman looks good! Welcome to the forum!!