American Tortoise Rescue

Little Boris, a Russian tortoise, was severely injured by a dog. His shell was fractured and is missing about a quarter of his top shell leaving his organs partially exposed. The dog also gnawed and damaged his entire top shell. He was admitted to a veterinary hospital on June 4th by a woman who claimed she found him. This often happens with the tortoise owner panics and disavows that he or she owned the animal and the dog. Because of his very serious injury, bleeding and a fungus infection, he was given a grave prognosis.

Fortunately, he was admitted to American Tortoise Rescue's hospital on June 18th. We have been caring for Boris with frequent dressing changes, feeding, sun supervision and TLC. We have taken him to two other specialists to make sure he receives the best care possible, but it is expected that he will need a least a year to recover.

When his wound is filled in enough, we can have him fitted with a fiberglass shell. In the mean time, we are also investigating 3D options for the shell replacement.

As an all volunteer sanctuary and nonprofit with all monies going to the tortoises and turtles in our care, year-long veterinary care for Boris is a very expensive proposition. You can help Boris and other ill residents in our hospital return to health by donating to our Veterinary Fund. It not only helps our own turtles and tortoises, but helps those in need of medical care whose owners need financial assistance.

Thank you. Bless you.
Susan and Marshall