My tortoise is unresponsive, head in shell. Is it an emergency?

The tortoise will need to be examined by a veterinarian experienced in treating reptiles. If the injuries are severe or if the tortoise is truly paralyzed, humane euthanasia may be an option. Without an exam, it is difficult to determine the extent of the injuries or what treatment is needed.

Tortoises have been known to appear dead for several hours and then start moving again. Please have a reptile vet see Freda asap, as they can help you determine what is going on. Check https://findavet.rcvs.org.uk/home/ for reptile vets in your area, and good luck.

Thanks for reaching out about Hank. Not all animals remain limp after dying. and can stiffen up (rigor mortis) A veterinary visit can assess for a heart beat, but this does not appear promising. Sorry.

Thanks for reaching out about your turtle. Removed from the water to a dry enclosure with a warm towel, to prevent drowning. A veterinary visit this morning is highly recommended, as the high water temperatures have probably caused some internal thermal damage, maybe brain swelling. Anti-inflammatories and possible medications to decrease brain swelling. This is an emergency by your description. Good luck.

I am sorry to hear about Nokta. I too, am worried about what you describe. Although when they hibernate their limbs are usually in the shell, not out. I do worry that she could be gravely ill and very weak. It can be hard to tell if a turtle is deceased. It is impossible to find a heartbeat, and reptiles can survive on only breathing very infrequently. I would recommend having her evaluated by your veterinarian as soon as possible. If that is not available then try to warm her up and see if she will Move. If she is alive she likely needs veterinary care to survive. Best of luck and thank you for using Pet Coach.

That redness may indicate severe infection. Cooper needs to be physically examined by your veterinarian or an experienced herp vet as soon as possible. If infection is confirmed, she can be started on antibiotics immediately.

Sorry to hear about your bearded dragon. It is important to see a veterinarian immediately if he is not moving. Can you tell if he is breathing? Pinch his toes to see if he responds. See a veterinarians, ASAP.