The shell of turtles and tortoises have two parts — an upper part known as the dorsal shell and the bottom part which is know as the plastron. Some of the most common problems that affect shells of pet turtles and tortoises include the following:
Shedding of the shell
The shell of turtles and tortoises undergo a natural process of shedding. However, there are instances when the ‘scutes’ (sections of the shell) drop off rapidly. This often indicate the presence of an infection or damage to the shell.
Ulcerative shell disease (shell rot)
A shell rot is characterized by pitting, the presence of white patches on the shell, a change in color, or lifting of the scute. There are several reasons for shell rot, such as minor injury or it may be triggered by environmental factors. Keeping your pet’s enclosure clean and dry is very important. Water inside the enclosure should be replaced regularly. Dirty and moist conditions create a favorable environment for fungal and bacterial growth.
Signs of illness exhibited by your pet turtle or tortoise should be brought to the attention of your vet Derby. Visit this link to learn more: https://hodesvhc.com/
Helalth Care 