DIY beak trim?

LaLaP

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Jun 25, 2018
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959
Location (City and/or State)
Portland, OR
IMG_4937.JPG IMG_4938.JPG I've temporarily taken in a Russian tort that has had it pretty rough and he needs a beak trim. I'm considering doing it myself cause I'm a do-it-yourself type. It's not about the money for the vet or anything.. I'm just driven to do new things but I don't want to hurt the little guy. I've watched some you tube videos and it doesn't look that difficult. I'd use nail clippers. I read a great post by Yvonne (thx!) describing the process and warning about cutting the quick.
Here's my question: Is it difficult to keep their mouths open and not get bit? What if I use a wooden stick (like a skewer) to prop his mouth open? Across his mouth of course, not poking him.
What if I do nick the quick? How do I stop the bleeding?
Any potential problems I should be aware of?
And lastly, should I suppress my DIY nature and just take him to a vet?
 

Southernreptiles

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Jul 13, 2018
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68
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Boca Raton
I would just start feeding on top of slate or a flat brick paver. As the tortoise eats it’s beak will rub on the slate/brick and slowly wear down
 

LaLaP

Well-Known Member
5 Year Member
Joined
Jun 25, 2018
Messages
959
Location (City and/or State)
Portland, OR
I would just start feeding on top of slate or a flat brick paver. As the tortoise eats it’s beak will rub on the slate/brick and slowly wear down
I have started feeding him on a flat stone since ive had him (3 days) but it's quite over grown. You think that will be enough over time?
 
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