Editor’s Note: The juvenile gopher tortoise is part of the CROW CAW (Case A Week) series, which tells the stories of the patients at the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife on Sanibel Island, the dangers they face, and how we can help protect all of our wildlife. Read previous cases here.
A juvenile gopher tortoise (25-4100) was admitted to CROW after being attacked by a dog, which left the tortoise with multiple punctures and abrasions across its shell. However, radiographs revealed no extensive internal injuries or limb fractures.
CROW’s hospital staff cleaned and bandaged the wounds with silver honey, an antimicrobial dressing that promotes healing. Silver honey is often used in the veterinary world, as it is non-toxic, unlike many other topical ointments that can be harmful when ingested.
Secondary infections are a concern for any victim of a dog or cat attack, as the mouths of these animals harbor many bacteria. As a result, the tortoise was started on a broad-spectrum antibiotic.
A tortoise’s shell is not simply a hard shield—it is made of living keratin and bone, complete with blood vessels and nerves. Damage to the shell is painful, so the tortoise was also given pain medication to support its recovery.
Since the beginning of 2025, CROW has admitted over 400 victims of dog and cat attacks. In the United States alone, free-ranging domestic cats kill an estimated 2.4 billion birds annually. Pet owners can protect their animals and wildlife by keeping their pets leashed or contained within a fenced area outdoors.
Although this tortoise is young and small, it isn’t considered an “infant.” Most reptiles, including gopher tortoises, are entirely independent when they hatch, requiring no parental care. However, there are a few exceptions – some crocodilians, skinks, geckos, and snakes care for their young.
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