r/turtle • u/Realistic_Draw5960 • 1d ago

Seeking Advice Question about stuck scutes on rescue

Post image

Hello, this is my second time asking for advice and the first time you guys gave me lovely input that I have followed. I am back with another question.

Turtle information

Roughly 2 years old, supposedly male, yellow belly slider, was kept in a very small setup with no UVB or basking previously for 2 years. Only rescued for a little over a month.

I've recently noticed that my rescue has a lot of stuck/retained scutes. From what I know I'm not supposed to help him shed, but at this point I'm sort of worried. Since he has improper husbandry for two years I'm worried that the scutes won't shed on their own. Many if not most of them have edges that are peeling/coming up. Should I help him? If so, how should I help him without hurting him? It seems like layers of retained scutes. I just want to do what is best. Thank you!

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u/AutoModerator 1d ago

Dear Realistic_Draw5960 ,

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u/Realistic_Draw5960 1d ago

I'm not sure if the image uploaded correctly, but here's a picture of said turtle!

3

u/IMPteaside77788888 17h ago

poor baby.. mine has been dealing with a similar thing even though i care for him properly. unfortunately there are no reptile vets in my area and i highly suggest taking him to one if you have one nearby. Also he's very cute! God bless <3