Problem with tortoise shell. Please help!

[Wrigley36]

I have a sulcata tortoise. He's about 7 years old. I believe this happened during his digging. Is there anything I can do for him or should do without going to the vet. That's last resort. Is he in pain? Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!

 

[dmmj]

Looks like top layer, should e no pain, and should heal on it's own. Keeping it clean couldn't hurt.

 

[CourtneyG]

Just keep it clean and maybe treat with Neosporin, nothing much can be done for a scute that fell off. The area will be sensitive for a few days, maybe keep him indoors, if you let him out some gauze with Neosporin on it that has been strapped on with bandage with help keep it clean.

 

[Yvonne G]

Yes, it's very painful. It would be the same as if you lost a fingernail. Are you sure it wasn't chewed off by a rat or a dog? Tortoises' shells are very sturdy and digging wouldn't do that damage. In my opinion, you should go to a vet and get a round of antibiotics for the tortoise.

 

[TortoiseRN]

I agree with Yvonne. From a medical professional standpoint any time you have a wound on an animal that lives outside and is exposed to elements and bacteria you should get them a round of antibiotics just to be safe.