| THE INJURY: |
Snead was observed floating in shallow water in a
Sneads Ferry, NC marina. Concerned folks boating in the area called North
Carolina Wildlife officials, who then alerted the KBSTRRC. Volunteers
responded immediately and transported the sea turtle to the KBSTRRC.
Snead has 5 head, neck and carapace cuts consistent with boat propeller
injuries. The injuries appear to be several weeks old, demonstrating how
long sea turtles can linger with debilitating injuries. |
| THE CARE: |
Snead's wounds were flushed with a betadine solution
and then again with saline solution. Triple antibiotic ointment was applied,
then covered with gauze. Blood was drawn and the PCV value is 27 which
is positive. Normal PCV range is 30-40.
(Compare this with Windy's at 13, up from 8). |
| THE PROGRESS: |
Snead was transported to the North Carolina State
University College of Veterinary Medicine. Here she was
attended by Dr. M. Stoskopf and staff.
There is radiographic evidence of skull fractures. Additionally severe
lacerations around the jaw and neck. These wounds were cleaned.
The largest wound was in the neck. After cleaning, drains were inserted
and the wound was sutured. The right front flipper is dislocated.
It is hoped physical therapy can retrain the muscles in this area so that
she will have use of it again. |
| UPDATE
9/14: |
The drain has been removed and the wounds debrided.
She is still not eating on her own and is being fed squid by hand. She
is completely unable to submerge. |
|
FINAL OUTCOME 9/26/98:
|
...and then Saturday she silently passed over to
the great sea turtle ocean in the sky. Mourned and missed quiet one. |