My turtle has a broken leg. Will it survive or need amputation?

There are several reports out there of three-legged box turtles. The biggest concerns you will have regarding this is damage to the shell and ability to move on certain surfaces. I would find a good wildlife veterinarian or at least one who is familiar with reptiles to work with. Depending on the part of the leg and foot that is missing, certain mechanical modifications can be made and/or attached to the turtles shell to provide both stability and protection. On the other hand, there are some turtles that have three legs that end up doing just fine. I would interested to know how you noticed that a leg was missing. If it was because you thought Flash wasn't getting around well, then discussing solutions with a veterinarian would be your best bet.

This is a medical emergency, and this puppy needs to see a vet now. This will be extremely painful for him, and he needs pain medications right away. Do not give him any human pain medications, as many are toxic to dogs and can be fatal if given. He also needs x-rays to determine how bad the fracture is, and if surgery is an option to repair it. If the fracture is really bad, amputation may be needed, but only a vet can decide that. Please take him into a vet immediately.

It depends on any secondary problems and if the trauma was only isolated to the leg. If his leg is the only thing that is broken and there are no other problems, he would likely be fine until seeing the vet. However, if there is any infection or anything else going on that might put his life at risk then he may not make it. If possible, I would get him in to be seen sooner so that the most appropriate diagnostic and treatment recommendations can be made. I hope this helps!

Thanks for reaching out about Sheel and including photos. A veterinary visit is recommended, probably with radiographs, to rule-in/out a fracture or dislocation. Even if fractured, some animals will walk on it. Pain medications will probably be recommended at the minimum. Soft tissue swelling might improve better with anti-inflammatory medications. Good luck.

It is difficult to determine a leg injury with these photos. Fractured legs rarely heal in a aquarium/terrarium environment due to the animals movements usually does not allow stabilization of the fracture site. Also, splinting the limbs is near impossible for the same reason. If you think this frog has a fracture, it probably needs to see a veterinarian, especially before it gets worse (such as an open fracture with bone exposed). I have amputated several frog/toad limbs in my day and most do well and have good quality of life, although tougher time catching prey. Might have to feed via forceps. Good luck.

Thanks for reaching out and including a photo. For aquatic turtles, it is very important to correct and seal the fracture, as they live in water and will commonly become infected. For now keep out of water and allow to dry. A veterinary visit is recommended for tomorrow. Pain medications are needed as the exposed bone hurts. Antibiotics are also necessary. Good luck.

Nubbins should be examined by an experienced herp veterinarian. Any open wounds are at risk of infection. They wounds should be properly cleaned and antibiotics administered if indicated. Dry docking him is the right thing to do until the wounds heal. He will need to be placed in water for about an hour a day to eat, rehydrate and defecate. Follow the link for a care sheet: http://www.anapsid.org/reslider.html