VetCT debuts free specialist services for rescued sea turtles

VetCT is offering free teleradiology reports and specialist advice for veterinarians from wildlife charities, zoos, and clinics worldwide working with the treatment and rehabilitation of sick and injured sea turtles.

“We are delighted to be working with partners globally to provide free access to our services for rescued sea turtles,” expressed Matt Winter, DVM, chief veterinary medical officer and radiologist for VetCT, in a company release.¹ "Sustainability is a guiding principle in all we do at VetCT, and supporting this key marine species is vital for the future health of many delicate marine ecosystems. Following the stories of these animals to final release is also incredibly rewarding."

Facilities in North America, Australia, South Africa, and Europe have registered to utilize the program.

LJ the Turtle (left) and image from the VetCT report with arrowheads displaying fracture defects in the carapace (right). (Photo courtesy of VetCT).

For example, Trevor Zachariah, DVM, DACZM, veterinarian at the Brevard Zoo in Melbourne, Florida, described they have a green sea turtle named ‘LJ’ who has severe injuries that appear to be from a boat propeller blade. He had suffered full thickness carapacial fracture with coelomic membrane exposure and entrapped lung tissue. They managed the injuries for 2 months with vacuum assisted closure, debridement, and bandage changes and performed a CT to monitor the healing progress. He commented in the release, “The VetCT report was great, showing detailed annotations of fracture healing and remaining lung changes, guiding ongoing management and continued rehabilitation for LJ. It’s great they’re providing free reports and advice that helps us to treat these amazing animals.”¹

What’s more, VetCT has been spreading the word by hosting in-person and online sea turtle lectures, leading company-wide events to decrease plastic pollution, and raising money for Wildlife Vets International, which supports conservation projects for sea turtles and additional endangered species.

Those interested in the services for rescued sea turtles can register by emailing sales@vet-ct.com.

Reference

VetCT launches free specialist services for rescued sea turtles. News release. VetCT. December 7, 2022. Accessed December 13, 2022.