how to mend a turtle shell?

Question

a cracked painted turle shell is there any way to mend it

Answer 1

There are some sites that tell you how to mend a shell. I will list them under sources.
I know its VERY important to make sure what whatever you use does not come in contact with the turtles skin or organs. If its a complex crack and you want to save the turtle you are best having someone professional do the mending. A vet, turtle specialist, or hobbyist would be the first place to look. Best of luck!
The second link has graphic pics of an injured turtle.
The third link is step-by-step but professional

Answer 2

This depends on the size of the crack. If it is large and allow the shell to flex, it should be repaired by a vet or someone with experience. Fiberglass would be the bandage of choice.

A smaller crack that does not in any way compromise the structure of the shell or inhibit breathing can be repaired in several ways. If the gap is closed, a bead of Super Glue will do the trick- just clean the shell area well, run a VERY small line along the crack and let it dry totally before releasing the turtle.

A small crack along an edge can be generally ignored unless it irritates the turtle's skin, then it should be filed or sanded smooth.

If this is a found turtle, and the crack is not too big, it is probably best to release it. Basking in the sun has almost magical healing properties for wild turtles.

Answer 3

Is the turtle alive?

If it is just a shell, you can try and carzy glue it back together.

If you have a live turtle, and it has a cracked shell, you have to choices. If it is just a hairline fracture, and not too serious, you can leave it and dry dock it. To dry dock for minor cracks is clean it with a betadine solution (Iodine or Nolvasan can be substituted) and then apply the strongest antibacterial cream (e.g Pollsyporin or Salvadene (prescribed)). Keep the turtle dry docked all day except 10 hour or swimming and feeding time. Repeat until the fracture looks healed and then return to the water. If you are uncomfortable treating it, you should seek a qualified reptile vet or rehab centre

For more serious fractures, cracks, etc., you need to get it to a vet or rehabilitaion centre ASAP! Blood loss and stress will be a factor and it may too late already. If the turtle's internal truama is stable, they will patch the shell with fibreglass. The shell is not that important, it's the internal ograns and injuries that usually kill it. A cracked shell is not so bad. It's like a people have a broken bone.

If you need help find a reptile vet here is a link for each state. If you are in Canada, give me a shout. I have another reseource list.

Answer 4

when i found mine, he had a crack on the under side, i just put antibiotic ointmaent on it for a week and left it alone, its still a little cracked but he's fine and i've had him over a year. when they live in the wild things like that happen and they manage to live 60 or so years that way and it doesnt seem to bother or effect them. just dont wash off the shell or it will wash off a protect coating that keeps them from getting sick and be sure to wash your hands cause they carry salmonella. I have two box turtles, tyson and evander.

Answer 5

I was told by a vet to use a fiberglass patch kit. Whatever you use, PLEASE be very careful to make sure the treated area is thoroughly disinfected and dry.

Answer 6

with a steady hand and super glue or hot glue on low setting if all else fails duct tape :)

Answer 7

Clear finger nail polish works, too.

Answer 8

I took mine to the vet and he said to just leave it.

Answer 9

yes but u have to be careful just get a filer and file it