LJ, a green sea turtle, and an image from the VetCT report with arrowheads showing fracture defects in the carapace. Photo courtesy VetCT Enhancing the rescue and rehabilitation of endangered sea turtle species via diagnostic imaging is the driving force behind a free offering from VetCT. The veterinary teleradiology provider is inviting global wildlife charities, zoos, and clinics to sign up to obtain free reports and specialist advice from its team of exotics experts. The service, which aims to help with the treatment and rehabilitation of sick and injured sea turtles, has already seen registrations from clinics, zoos, and aquariums in North America, Australia, South Africa, and Europe. “We have a green sea turtle, dubbed ‘LJ,’ who had severe injuries presumed to be from a boat propeller blade,” says Trevor Zachariah, DVM, DACZM, of the Brevard Zoo in Melbourne, Fla. “LJ had suffered full thickness carapacial fracture with coelomic membrane exposure and entrapped lung tissue. We had managed the injuries for two months with vacuum assisted closure, debridement, and bandage changes, and performed a CT to check healing progress. The report was great, showing detailed annotations of fracture healing and remaining lung changes, guiding ongoing management, and continued rehabilitation for LJ.” “We are delighted to be working with partners globally to provide free access to our services for rescued sea turtles,” adds VetCT radiologist and chief veterinary medical officer, Matt Winter, DVM, DACVR. “Supporting this key marine species is vital for the future health of many delicate marine ecosystems.” In addition to providing veterinary support, VetCT has been raising awareness on the issues impacting sea turtle species by hosting in-person and online talks, running company-wide events to reduce plastic pollution, and fundraising for Wildlife Vets International, which supports conservation projects for sea turtles and other endangered species. Sea turtles are classified as an endangered species, the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) reports, and are largely threatened by overharvesting, habitat loss, climate change, and pollution. Organizations, clinics, and charities wishing to access free services for rescued sea turtles can register by emailing sales@vet-ct.com.
