The Turtle Hospital. Rescue, Rehab, Release.

Mary

Mary

Arrival Date: June 3, 2024

Patient Profile

Name: Mary

Species: Green Sea Turtle

Weight: 28 pounds 

Reason for visit: Entanglement and Fibropapillomatosis (FP)

Location Found: Matheson Hammock Park, Miami, FL.

Status Report

06/03/24: The local fire department of Miami responded to a unique call for help. A young Green Sea Turtle was found ashore with fishing lines and hooks tightly wrapped around its front flippers. Responders reached out to the Miami Dade Sea Turtle Group for assistance in transporting the newly named “Mary” to The Turtle Hospital. While obtaining Mary, the Miami Dade Sea Turtle Group noticed unfortunately Mary was also covered in medium to large size Fibropapillomatosis (FP). Once Mary arrived our rehab team quickly jumped into action to remove the tightly wound fishing line, unhook the painful hooks, and began initial supportive care to help Mary feel more comfortable after her long journey. Mary was started on intravenous fluids, medications, wound care, and placed in her new hospital tank for some much needed rest. We are thankful for the first responders of the Coral Gables Fire Department and the Miami Dade Sea Turtle Group for working together to help this young sea turtle in need. Mary will continue her care here at The Turtle Hospital, stay tuned for more updates on her recovery. Make sure to send her well wishes during your upcoming visit to The Turtle Hospital. 

06/28/24: Miss Mary has been a wonderful patient for her rehab team. At first Mary wasn’t very interested in eating, to ensure she was receiving proper nutrition rehab staff started her on an intravenous (IV) nutrition along with fluids. This process was just what Mary needed and soon began to regain her appetite and munch on her seagrass and seafood salads. After being approved for surgery by lead veterinarian Dr. Norton, Mary had her first surgery to remove the Fibropapillomatosis (FP) masses located on her eyes and body. With a smooth postoperative recovery, Mary is currently enjoying the additional check ups by her rehab team. Mary will receive medicated eye drops for the next 8 weeks to help her eyes heal from the surgery and protect her eyesight. Good job Mary on your first surgery! Make sure to say hello to this lady during your next visit to The Turtle Hospital, she is located near the main pool by our resident sea turtles.

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