12/17/2025
Patient Highlight: Boxter the Box Turtle - A Year-Long Journey
Boxter the box turtle presented to our hospital on October 31, 2024, with a spooky shell lesion. On the surface, it was just discoloration and roughening, but debridement by Dr. Zalesak uncovered a much deeper, potentially life-threatening lesion. Boxter was diagnosed with shell rot, or Septicemic Cutaneous Ulcerative Disease. This condition is caused by bacterial or fungal infections that invade the shell through injuries or poor habitat (like excessive moisture), leading to soft, discolored, or crumbling areas.
Boxter's dedicated owner immediately began treatment: daily soaking, regular bandage changes, and injectable antibiotics.
Despite initial improvement, Boxter's condition worsened in November 2024 when new lesions appeared in a critical spot, raising concern of rupturing into the lung fields. X-rays confirmed the lesions had not penetrated the body cavity. Due to her decline, a bacterial culture was performed and revealed a resistant infection. This necessitated a new, kidney-risky antibiotic. The owner continued critical at-home care, administering the new injectable and subcutaneous fluids for hydration to protect her kidneys, alongside regular veterinary visits for debridement.
The new year brought progress. By January 2025, Boxter's wounds had significantly filled with healthy, deep-red granulation tissue, a strong sign she was responding.
After months of unwavering care, the lesions were fully healed by August 2025. In November 2025, over one year later, Boxter was finally given the all-clear! Her shell, though bearing lifelong scars, is now hardened and back to being a protective layer.
Boxter's story highlights the importance of specialized care. Reptiles often mask signs of illness until severe. If you notice any changes in your turtle's shell, appetite, or behavior, seek veterinary care from an exotic animal specialist immediately. We are here to help your unique companions thrive!
