Allie
Allie
Arrival Date: April 17, 2024
Patient Profile
Name: Allie
Species: Green Sea Turtle
Weight: 13 pounds
Reason for visit: Fibropapillomatosis (FP)
Location Found: Key Largo, FL
Status Report
04/17/24: Allie was spotted by a local boater near Key Largo island, she was lethargic and unwell at the surface of the water. Upon arrival at the Turtle Hospital Allie was in critical condition with Fibropapillomatosis (FP) masses in her groin. Rehab staff performed diagnostics such as blood work which revealed Allie was severely anemic. Our non-releasable resident Green Sea Turtle Emerald stepped in to help by donating blood. With the help of this blood transfusion Allie was feeling a bit better while she rested in her hospital tank. Due to her tumors Allie will focus on becoming strong and stable before she begins the surgical process later for tumor removals. (Sea turtles can donate blood to each other when needed. They must be the same species to accept the donation. Example: Green Sea Turtles can donate to another Green Sea Turtle but NOT to a Loggerhead.)
05/20/24: Rehab staff continues to monitor Allie, she currently receives weekly bloodwork as they track her improvement. Allie has adjusted well to her hospital tank, and loves to receive attention from her rehab team. Her favorite activity currently is foraging for her food through enrichment toys created by the rehab staff.
06/01/24: Due to Allie’s improved health she was approved for surgery to begin the process of removing the Fibropapillomatosis (FP) tumors. Rehab staff report she did great through the procedure and has been enjoying all the extra attention during her recovery. Make sure to come say hello to her during your next visit to the Turtle Hospital, we know Allie would love the encouragement as she works hard to become tumor free.
06/21/24: This month Allie has gone through two surgeries for removal of the Fibropapillomatosis (FP) tumors on her body. We are happy to report she only has tumors left on her eyes. Great job Allie for being such a trooper through your many surgeries, now just the final stretch to remove the last few. This surgery will be performed by Dr. Brooke Burkhalter, a veterinarian specializing in internal medicine and skilled in the care of sea turtles. Dr. Burkhalter is the lead veterinarian at the University of Florida within their sea turtle hospital department. Yesterday she used her skills to help remove these uncomfortable masses on Allies eyes. If you are visiting our facility today you may even get to see Dr. Burkhalter perform this procedure in our surgery suite, as our educational programs have the opportunity to view as they are given a walk through of our hospital.
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