Rescuing a Deformed Box Turtle

[@LunatheMoonDragon]

i absolutely CANNOT believe that this guy didn't end up as a euthanasia case! He has such an insane will to live and survive, no matter what! I hope he has the best family!

[@Nordstatic]

Idk if it wouldnt be better to put him down :/ he is probably in a lot of pain but reptiles cant show it and just keep going

[@smelly4498]

@@Nordstatic it’s hard to say with reptiles, i think if he were less energetic/eager to eat it would probably be best but it seems like he wants to keep going. a lot of the time you can see when an animal has given up

[@huntercollum869]

You would be amazed what animals can take, especially those that are basically just wild creatures. I know a feral cat that survived things that would have killed any person had the equivalent happened to them. I mean chunks literally missing from the little dude's shoulder and neck I really thought he was going to have to be put down it was like if a person had a grizzly bear rip a piece off of their torso. Everybody else told me the same that he would just suffer needlessly and needed to be euthanized. I just couldn't bring myself to do it though he was too vital. Had too much desire to live he made it very clear that he had no interest in giving up. Made the call that if he was willing to go through all he was to live, then I'd do all I could to help him. Damned glad I didn't do it because he healed so well you can't even see the scars. You can see the scars he gave me for putting medicine on him at first though lol but I swear after a couple of days he actually started coming up for it like he knew it was helping him. Got to the point that once afterwards when he got a small eye infection, he would come up to me and let me apply cream directly to his eyeball without struggling. He's still kicking around years later as healthy as ever and a lot less feral, which I and all the small creatures nearby are grateful for lol

[@MrBcummings8521]

@@Nordstatic if they are mobile and still eating, they are not a euthanasia case. When animals give up they usually become lethargic and stop eating. A couple days of that then you call it and put them out of there misery. But if they have the spirit to move and eat they should be given the chance to live.

[@strayiggytv]

I was shocked that he went for that worm that hard. He also is really scooting around so It may not be to late to get him back on track. The shell deformity is unfortunate but I've seen recoveries before and as long as he's getting around and eating he's trying.

[@perineumdestroyer5000]

Maybe this is dumb but as a foster kid who bounced around a lot and was rescued from neglectful parents: I relate to animals like this so much. And it makes me so hopeful to see these animals given the chance to thrive

[@seregiel9541]

That is definitely not dumb. Any person/creature dependant on someone who is supposed to be a caretaker deserves a life they never need to be rescued from. I'm glad you are in a much better place, just like Edward.

[@carissashley]

I understand this too, as an abused child. I still have struggles as an adult; but luckily have people who help me along with my struggles. Wishing you the best and all the hope ❤️

[@jackierocha5096]

That’s not dumb at all, being able to see similarities between others(especially animals) and your own self and wanting them to improve out of unfortunate situations is something anyone with empathy can do, it’s what makes us human.

[@rebeccaberry684]

I understand this on a different level and agree it's not stupid at all. I also rescue exotic animals and have a son adopted from China. I use my animals to relate it was not his fault his bio family could not keep him. I ask him if it's the animal's fault that they were not treated correctly and did they deserve it. I believe it helps him see that it is not the animal's fault for the situation they are in and it's not his fault either for being abandoned. It was a decision by adults made that had nothing to due with him and he should not harbor guilt or shame. I also use it to help explain why his bio family could not keep him due to not being able to afford the surgeries for cleft lip/pallet and it was out of love they had to abandoned him. Just like there are some rescued animals that had to be relinquished due to the owner not being able to give proper care. The owner is doing what is best for the animal due to love not because the animal did something or because the original owner was neglectful. I believe with all my heart that animals are healing. I wish the best for you and hope you see your worth even though neglectful adults made horrible decisions that had nothing to do with you personally but instead has to do with them. Sending love.

[@rhiangwilt617]

It's not dumb at all. I find it helps to have someone or something that you can relate to. I was going through things as a teenager and relate to "Seven of nine" from Voyager. It's like, you're not going through things by yourself. I hope you're doing ok

[@Kiterpuss]

The desperation and determination in this little turtle when he was trying to eat that worm 🥺 He clearly wants to live and he knows he will be taken care of from now on.

[@juliewarnke8650]

❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤ ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@Hazel_iz_addicted_to_yaelokre]

@@juliewarnke8650pov:you just found out about the ❤ emoji

[@naturelover9716]

I don't know if you guys have something like this, but I would highly recommend adding a little donation box at your check out so that people can donate change to your rescue fund. Also, maybe see about adding a feature to your register (for those who pay with card) that will allow people to select an optional donation amount or even just round up their change to the nearest dollar. That way people can help contribute to the crazy vet bills that your rescue must rack up.

[@marsupialsofmars3886]

I feel like they must have something like that, I haven't really been to a zoo without some form of donation. People would definitely be willing! I feel like if they didn't people would be asking the staff how to give money anyway

[@EmberTheShark]

Thats an amazing Suggestion

[@amandastakeonit7402]

I thought Nature Lover was saying (but went a different direction) to help those that might be good homes be able to afford the extra care it might need. Like say you send it home with a three month supply of vit A capsules. Our humane Soc. accepts similar donations given either by the person giving up the animal (because they want it to get adopted soon and lower cost might help and/or money given by others for a pet they want to see adopted but have no room or to offset people that don't have enough money but are interested in adopting. Sometimes it's based on the color of an animal, health needs or age etc either way the money goes to help the adopter out. If they don't need the donated funds they can ask taht it be applied to another animal or back in the general pot.

[@johnharewood4800]

So smart

[@gabriellia7180]

I mean they make 20k a month alone on Patreon, plus revenue from YT, and lastly the sales from their shop and zoo. 😅 In all seriousness, that's a great idea! It'll give them more opportunities to take in these special cases. These animals would usually be euthanized if surrendered. 😥

[@byereality7492]

With his beak overgrown like that, he kind of looks like the child of a platypus and a turtle. I hope he gets feeling better under your care.

[@heisenburger1899]

Kinda looks like a croc mouth

[@DarkDraega]

I think honestly more of a three way cross between an alligator, Edward scissor hands and a turtle. I say alligator because the beak looks like it has sharp jagged teeth . I don’t see the platypus as much? But we could throw that one into the mix too, why not? Lol. 🤣

[@santiagoensley2576]

@@DarkDraega same I thought alligator

[@tooost1886]

He looks like a Kappa from Japanese folklore

[@corpsenymph4644]

Brooo now I’m a lil sad he wasn’t named Perry after Perry the Platypus-

[@StonedtotheBones13]

It's almost been a year, I'd love to see his beak now. Hope it's at least a bit better. Would frustrate him with worms less lol

[@masonhigginbotham9375]

Was there an update video or picture?

[@StonedtotheBones13]

@@masonhigginbotham9375 nope, just hoping. If he was adopted out tho, it would highly depend on who adopted him.

[@pawsskibidiman]

2 years now❤️

[@Hello.NateAdams]

Wonder no more! We made box turtle soup 🐢 🍲 after adopting him. His beak boiled off and It wasn't much to look at.

[@gooeyguts9980]

@@Hello.NateAdams youre a weirdo

[@tThisNThat]

PLEASE KEEP HIM! Like others have commented, he is a perfect Ambassador for how important it is to care properly for your pet.

[@TheSeptemberRose]

I AGREE!

[@BananaButtPower]

right?! I hope we can at least get an update video on him

[@KIKURAsky]

YES

[@CMUchippewa]

Yea how is he please tell us please we need to know please

[@moofy69]

the problem with that is if this creature is not living a happy life, its kinda cruel to keep him alive purely to show people the consequences of their neglect

[@CasperWasHere118]

When he gave that first worm the side eye I kinda yelled "YES!! A FEEDING RESPONSE!!!" louder than I had intended. I'm so glad that he's got a fighting spirit.

[@richardw64]

i think he does not want to eat from a tray

[@TaruTheShark]

Same I loved that moment so I was very loud 😅😅😅

[@burntbeansoup]

Did you really?

[@aii1717]

Despite his deformations he’s still so freakin cute. Thank you for helping this sweet baby.

[@colinstate]

He is not cute, he is terrifying. None the less, the little guy deserves some help and a better home

[@magallanesagustin4952]

@@colinstate how is he terrifying?

[@Hazel_iz_addicted_to_yaelokre]

@@colinstatebro they are helping in this video-

[@sufferinsilence5817]

Aw, man... This poor little dude doesn't even look like his species anymore :( Sure I'm a total rookie, but seriously, if you hadn't told me he was a box turtle, I would _not_ have been able to identify him.. I'm so glad he ended up in your hands! Things are finally looking up for little Edward

[@danielcain8136]

In saying that I'm kind of curious if this deforming may might benefit him getting a sharper beak like most Turtles although that would be extremely rare if it did happen

[@doomjuice.1652]

It turned into a crocodile box turtle XD

[@doubledoseofdisney]

I saw the picture and actually thought there was some kind of turtle that genetically looked like a platypus but when you said it was a box turtle I actually had chills. This poor baby

[@Hannah57293]

i thought it was a weird frog from the thumbnail

[@alcapone8069]

I thought that it was some like birth defect, but I can’t believe that this is the result of just poor keeping.

[@tisfortori4521]

I know ): poor baby

[@Caninebug]

I know.. I was going to make a joke about him “looking like the clacker” (I saw it on my neices iPad, it was a ops video I think? Bps? Lps? Idk) but now I feel so bad 😓

[@honeybunches1724]

Please please please make an update on him!!!❤😢 stumbled upon this before bed

[@CMUchippewa]

Yeah pls

[@divinemystics4587]

Yes an update please

[@wickedwildwallace]

@@divinemystics4587 its been like a year, hes definitely been adopted lmao

[@StonedtotheBones13]

Right? I need closure. I want to know if his beak is better

[@cara9648]

This definitely shows how important researching pet care on your specific animal is. I'm sure he was loved by his first humans, but they didn't know how to properly take care of him and he became how he is. I wish him the best in his new home!

[@toebiter69]

cant love an animal and let it get that bad

[@ashton8289]

They should’ve sought care for that turtle years ago…

[@esthermerriken4408]

They fed him pet food labeled specifically for his species! By all reasonable standards that should have been good information. (The pet food industry has problems)

[@SpeedDemonStar]

@@esthermerriken4408 Definitely! A couple of my former dogs have had grain allergies, especially corn. Finding food, especially dry food, without corn at all, or even just not as one of the first 4-5 ingredients is difficult. It's even worse with treats. I quickly gave up on dry, baked treats and stuck with just meat-only ones like dehydrated beef, fish, chicken, etc., or just plain fruits & veggies, especially carrots, celery, and my last two's favorites, sweet potatoes.

[@akio_kuro]

He was neglected. That is _not_ loving.

[@SeattleSeaDragon]

You & Ed have a heart of gold.. and I cannot wait to see how far adoption island grows. Between your love and dedication to the animals and the people who support you.. I know in my heart you're going to do great things and so many animals are going to find better lives thanks to you... Compassion truly is a blessing..

[@leemetcalf5136]

Ima ruin the likes 334

[@Aubs902]

I fixed it 720

[@pepadacat5371]

So true they are both amazing

[@rachelbrown124]

I agree with everything your saying

[@biokosmos]

I put the person in a box.... forever

[@lexslate2476]

I am so glad that he's headed for recovery. I hope his beak straightens out over time, and I'm frankly baffled that anyone would let a tortoise get in to such an awful state. I'm not surprised he's bouncing back, though. Tortoises in general are tough as nails.

[@Strype13]

For the record, box turtles are not considered tortoises. 👍

[@lexslate2476]

@@Strype13 My mistake.

[@Strype13]

@@lexslate2476 No biggie! I think they were actually considered tortoises at one point, aside from them being mostly land-based (like tortoises are) so it's perfectly understandable. I just remember my grandfather telling me that a couple of years back while I visited him in Florida, so I figured I would pass down the knowledge.

[@lexslate2476]

@@Strype13 Thank you. I remember seeing a video by Clint's Reptiles that said tortoises were identifiable by the way they walked and the shape of their heads, but that little guy was a little off-model on both counts.

[@Strype13]

@@lexslate2476 He sure was! Poor thing. And great taste in channels, by the way. Clint's channel is one of my favorites as well. Really enjoy his vast knowledge as well as his charismatic energy.

[@jgmatney5059]

Does anyone else want Ed and Emily to keep him? I think he’d be a good educational animal to show why it’s so important to properly care for turtles

[@tThisNThat]

YESSSS! Don't know if this is also part of your reasoning, but for me, I don't trust that someone will give it the kind care it needs. Or there should be a special needs animal adoption where, being able to buy meets certain criteria. A much higher level of criteria.

[@tThisNThat]

BUMP!

[@Gavirael]

I agree he would be a great educational animal. Explaining certain animals require certain diets or malformation can happen.

[@PriestessShizuka]

same i really want to see how his beak fixes itself or see how more beak trims help it grow into a shape that he can eat much easier with.

[@Narutalia65]

@@tThisNThat Absolutely. I don't think many people realize just how hard taking care of a special needs animal can be. There are so many vet visits and nights that you will spend tending to your animal, specialized diet in some cases too. And I also don't think people are prepared emotionally. Because they don't realize that even if you try your BEST, some animals just can't be saved.

[@chickenpermission1861]

I have a three toed boxy, name of Buddy cause he’s my Buddy, and long story short, we got him when I was really little from a shady pet shop who said he was a Russian tortoise. We knew nothing and believed them, and for years he lived in what I now know was a pretty terrible Russian tortoise enclosure but a livable box environment. He had a cave, uvb, and a water dish he liked to sit in. But there was no substrate, glass tank that was too small, and no significant heat. Along with that his diet was very poor, mostly romaine lettuce. Right around the lockdown, I realized from channels like this and others that not only was he in fact a box turtle he was in a bad set up. He’s now in a large storage tub, with fogger, deep coconut and Sphagnum moss substrate, varied diet, bigger pool, and heat/uvb lamp. I can’t change the past, but I’m glad my buddy is still with me and living better now.

[@dothebunnyhop4026]

Legit proud of you for doing some research and figuring stuff out!! You're a wonderful pet owner who wants the best for your friend.

[@jackierocha5096]

Realizing you made mistakes in the past and doing your best to rectify any harm those mistakes may have caused is amazing growth for you and I am sure Buddy can feel how much you love him now that you know more now then you did back then

[@aubryellaotero1064]

Giving him the best life he can have now is what’s important! Good for you for doing the research required for the lol guy

[@cameronbelanger2525]

Acknowledging mistakes and working to create a better life for them is amazing! We love this

[@wongledongle340]

I got my three-toed when I was probably too young and made similar mistakes, she's now living the best life I can give her.

[@MK-xs5vf]

He reminds me of a turtle duck from avatar. He’s adorable, despite his deformities, and I hope he happily thrives wherever he is!

[@MortimerLR]

Poor buddy looks like someone tried to draw a turtle from someone else's description. You guys are amazing and I hope you continue to help creatures like this.

[@krngkrrb8991]

I know this is a serious situation for him but your example made me chuckle XD He's perfect in his own way and he will hopefully thrive!

[@dolphinman9896]

I think he's adorable in his own special way, he reminds me of a turtle duck from atla!

[@debasil]

violation

[@watch-_-yourhead1460]

I’m sorry I couldn’t help but laugh at the first sentence💀

[@crowdemon_archives]

Like a mediaeval monk art? 😂

[@Chaotic_Pixie]

For a little guy who has survived so much... he has such a fun personality! The ability of animals to bounce back from extreme circumstances will forever amaze me. And if he doesn't find the right home, he'd make such an amazing program animal... teaching students about the importance of proper care.

[@alicecain4851]

The problem with that is that I want them to keep EVERY extreme case! LoL I wonder if they (Snake Discovery) will ever do follow-ups? The new owners will have to agree and all that and I imagine some people just want to be left alone with their new family member(s). I'd love to see this little guy in a year after getting the proper care. Wasn't his little body so cute!? I hope he's not in much pain with his shell not being as domed as it should be and maybe not enough room for his organs. Slow and steady Edward! Don't eat too much too fast! Gotta let the shell grow too! The new family is going to need to do a whole lot of learning! They should contact Kenan at Kamp Kenan in Florida. He specializes in tortoises and he's kept Lego - a tortoise with an extremely deformed shell who still lives her best life! I know from him that you CAN feed them too much/too fast and cause shell damage. Edward doesn't need more issues! I hope they find the best Vet and get the best help because Edward looked like he was straining towards living HIS best life!

[@SofisHappyPets]

I want to see a "one year later" update on this little one!!

[@viyorel]

i'd LOVE to see an update on him before he gets adopted (or if finding the right owner is tough, maybe in a month or so!)... what a sweetie pie that has such a strong will to live. i'm glad he's doing okay!

[@highjinx6519]

I’d love to see updates even after he’s adopted if at all possible. Would be so awesome to see him get better and thrive in a loving home.

[@sheilarogge2461]

@@highjinx6519 I would have such a hard time adopting him out to someone. I would be so nervous they wouldnt care for him correctly. Maybe they should give him to sayyyyy this girl right here.....Id feel better. :)

[@KaylaChan90]

I have never been so happy to see an animal grab at a worm as when he did. Hope whoever adopts him gives him all the love.

[@WilsonB-ev2jt]

Edward is growing on me by the minute and I agree

[@ragevsraid7703]

ikr he is such a trooper Good Job Edward Scissorhands!

[@rogue6885]

Honestly, I think 3d printing and fitting him a new beak would be best for him. They've done it for various birds before, and it would definitely ensure that he's able to eat properly

[@pirig-gal]

Well, she says it's probably going to correct itself in time, so preparing a beak prosthesis may not be necessary here. It'll learn how to eat properly with it over time.

[@urgae9125]

It’s more that the little guy learned how to eat with a deformed beak, so now he needs to learn how to eat with a “normal” one. Clearly, the trimming isn’t perfect because of the disability he had, but he’ll be okay over time with some proper TLC.

[@Yoma_all]

I feel like he is too smal for this also its probably going to get more normal with time

[@lorrainemunoa791]

I've never seen a live turtle with deformities that bad, poor critter!! How incredible that you were able to find a way to trim his beak so that he can eat with it. Turtles really are survivors, and if there's a chance they'll give it a go- this guy shows that attitude perfectly!

[@shaunacorrigan9372]

It's disgusting that these companies are allowed to produce and market a pet food product that doesn't actually provide adequate nutrition for the animal it's marketed for. If you have a box turtle and go to the pet store and find a product that is labeled as food for box turtles, you can't really be blamed for assuming that product is an appropriate diet for your box turtle! Obviously it would be best to do lots of research before getting an animal and providing them with necessary veterinary care, but the big pet stores especially need to be a lot more mindful of the products they sell

[@rosesweetcharlotte]

Really, as someone who doesn't know anything about turtles, I would assume the pellets would be enough.

[@Dandylion567]

@@rosesweetcharlotte That absolutely isn't the case. All terrapins need varied diets. Box turtles in particular need to eat a lot of produce and insects. My family has done rescue/release situations for many turtles, mainly Eastern box turtles, and they all have food preferences. Some can be really picky. A lot of them don't even like pellets.

[@raphaelwilliams1820]

You’re right, but unfortunately some people even when provided what proper care looks like decide it’s “too much work” and “going overboard” simply because pet stores provide these products and they are cheap+convenient and/or they heard from their mother’s cousin that they kept the thing in a 5 gallon and fed it table scraps and their pet is still “healthy”. It’s easier for people to be uneducated when they see stuff like beardie babies grouped together and stacking or leopard geckos cuddling because it’s “cute” and they need a “friend”. I used to be one of those people, but I ended up delving a lot deeper before I even thought about getting a reptile over the past few years and corrected myself. Even today I keep learning. A lot of people don’t. They make that purchase at the store without thinking. It’s scary how people can know next to nothing about caring for a specific living creature and “figure it out as they go”. Which definitely partially leads to people using stuff like pellets blindly. It’s not all the companies. I’ve seen simple stuff like dogs and cats given absolutely abysmal care and the cheapest chemical ridden food available because “it’s fine, it’s cat food” Part of it is the owner’s choice. Part of it is the companies that aren’t held accountable for selling a bad product. Tldr; you should do research for *any* animal. Whether it is a puppy, gecko or a tortoise. Getting a life form with no knowledge on how to care for it is a horrible idea. This includes the store handing you an info sheet and sending you off

[@geekmyths]

@@raphaelwilliams1820 Well Emily said the turtle was fairly well taken care of, and that the turtles diet did include other things like fruit. So clearly the original owner did some research, even though it was incomplete. To me this doesn’t seem like a case where they were cheaping out or didn’t care. To me it sounds like they googled what box turtles eat, got suggested the horrible pellets and trusted them blindly. Because honestly, why wouldn’t you trust them? As a newbie, you’d assume that a company making food specifically for an animal would know better than you ever could. In the owner’s shoes I’m sure I’d do the exact same thing. It’s really sad what happened to this little guy, but I’m hesitant to place blame on a new owner who tried to do research, and just got sent down a bad path. The real bad guy here is the greedy pellet company that is willing to sacrifice the health of tons of turtles for more money. I would also like to say that I’m not excusing how long the owner let this continue. That is fully the owners fault. I just don’t think they should be blamed for feeding the turtle pellets.

[@HopeGardner3amed]

@@rosesweetcharlotte that's not even for dogs/cats

[@Thejackofirishdiamon]

This is a good channel. I needed to see a creature get some extra care and kindness. This world needs more people like this lady.

[@w.m.8126]

I think Edward Scissorhands fits his name perfectly and, even in his health state, seems pretty darn cute. Sorta just needs some love and for those around him to see his uniqueness and beauty, so I hope a new home in the future is possible. (Btw I'd be interested on an update video for the little cutie if there's any time in Snake Discovery's busy schedule !!))

[@alicecain4851]

And the new family has to agree. I hope they do because Edward certainly pulled at my heartstrings. 🧡🐢🧡🐢🧡

[@highjinx6519]

Yep I want updates too.

[@nantastic]

Oh gosh, this poor little guy. I'm so glad he's in good hands now. Hopefully he'll go to someone who can provide him the care he deserves!

[@maejames-mckenna927]

his little smirk after u shaved it down was so cute!!!!

[@thebloodroze1597]

The poor baby! I hope he gets a loving forever home and has the happiest life a turtle can have as soon as possible!

[@phangirlable]

He's probably already adopted but if not after this video there will be a queue to adopt him.

[@Horsedogz]

Oh my god. I had no idea that turtles could get so deformed. Poor soul. You guys are amazing, and thank you for caring for the innocent

[@cicelypatterson3927]

me neither, its almost hard to let it get this bad

[@-desertpackrat]

I haven't gottten to the part where she says yet but I'm assuming this is metabolic bone disease from lack of UV and diet, it's sooo common it's scary and it makes them so deformed :( NEVER seen that beak deformity though!

[@-desertpackrat]

So yeah she said diet, it's that metabolic bone disease or similar :( so horrible

[@lorrainemunoa791]

The great tragedy of turtles and tortoises is that they are survival masters- which means people will keep them in just the worst possible conditions out of cheapness or innocent ignorance and they WILL live. But they'll suffer in silence. Tiny space, poor diet, no UV, they'll survive all that and so people conclude, "Well it looks fine! The guys at Walpetcosmart told me it only needed to eat spinach and the girl on tikitok feeds hers fruit all the time so it must be okay."

[@yukifoxdemon]

I'm not trying to judge the former owner, I just genuinely don't understand how someone can let it get THAT far without vet care or at least figuring out what would fix it...

[@JYYB]

Some people just don’t care. It’s sad I’ve seen so many vet videos where the owners allow stuff to happen to pets and once it horrible they get it checked. They don’t want to pay the bill. I’m over here with no pets and I even know it’s common sense to take your pet to a vet when someone is wrong.

[@yukifoxdemon]

@@JYYB I know a lot of the time, it's a head in the sand kind of thing, unfortunately...they think they can ignore it and it'll eventually fix itself, but by the time they realize it won't, this happens. I just wish more people would research animals before taking them home.

[@Lenlon703]

my grandma has a baby sulcata that didn't grow a centimeter since half a year when she got it. It got diagnosed with bladder stone that's a bit big a month after getting it(most likely genetic), she medicated it with one bladderstone med but it didnt work even after it's finished. The stone got even bigger 3 month after that. Instead of taking it to another vet that might be able to save it she chose to use human bladderstone meds instead and prob still doing it to this day. Their eye has been shut for 3 month, it's shell is getting softer as time passes, it eats very little every few days and it doesn' move more than an inch everyday. I've been telling her to either let a new vet treat it or put it down since her medication isn't working and it's clearly suffering. Some people just don't understand that they can still torture something even when they love it deeply.

[@lotuslady9821]

I’m definitely with you on that. I’m honestly horrified at how bad this poor turtle looks. This doesn’t happen overnight and I genuinely want to know why the owners didn’t bother helping sooner if they “had everything he needed” according to the information they gave. I call bullshit on anything the previous owner claims they did.

[@rosesweetcharlotte]

Especially since it is pretty clear that that doesn't look like a normal turtle.

[@nogames8982]

I adopted a box turtle from a rescue. It is about 35 years old and doesn't have any toes because they were all eating off by mites. She lived her whole life in an aquarium. So now she has a big indoor enclosure and a big outdoor enclosure

[@Lana-dk2ie]

Thank you for adopting her!

[@MissFluffyPink]

Like several others I would love an update for this guy. It's such a severe case and I just need to know that he's okay 💔

[@SexyPantsBrox3]

We have had our family ornate box turtle (his name is Squirtle) and he is a charming guy. We’ve had him for roughly 17 years now and he still gets to go outside in the grass daily and hunt for bugs in outside and is very spoiled. I wish I could take in this special guy ❤️

[@lem4425]

Oh my gosh. We saw him just yesterday and I noticed his beak. I think it looks a lot better from where he started already. I could tell he had a story to tell. So glad you guys do this kind of thing and help animals to find the forever home they deserve.

[@victorialazareva]

do you know if he got adopted?

[@Dragonadeeznuts]

oh this poor baby! i’m so proud of him! he’s a little warrior! edward is so precious and i’m very happy to see his progress

[@lucetubegplusstillsux2678]

He almost looks like a Mythical Japanese Kappa, I wonder if the myth started by seeing a similar turtle species with special needs. Hope he recovers as best as possible.

[@sophiasieczka]

literally was just about to comment this!

[@neolithiumproduction]

I was thinking of this to from the start of the video. There was so many similarities to a kappa.

[@Dandylion567]

You're right, but I'd don't deformities like that would happen in a wild environment.

[@ILuvAyeAye]

​@@Dandylion567 I think it would be unlikely. Possibly turtles can get some kind of medical issue that prevents the animal from absorbing vitamin A from their food?I don't know much about turtles, but I think humans become deficient in vitamin A when an issue like celiac disease or liver cirrhosis keeps them from absorbing the vitamin in their food. Another possibility could be a medical issue that makes it difficult for a turtle to catch bugs, but they are still able to eat vegetation. But I think you're right, deformities like this would be unlikely in the wild.

[@null9090]

​@@Dandylion567 It could be that ancient people kept them as pets, made care mistakes because of lack of knowledge and technology, and got used to seeing deformed turtles.

[@Jaceisdabest]

i love that you guys rescue animals, everyone deserves another chance at a good life :)

[@treyb2919]

Was there any update to this guy?

[@parisinthe30sx]

This turtle breaks my heart. Theres so much information out there, there's no reason for neglect like this. He is in right place for the best possible care. I hope he thrives. I had a dog at my clinic once that had such long quiks, I could only Dremel for a few seconds before it would bleed. If you don't have quik stop, flour or coffee grounds can help for dogs and cats especially

[@logangamble8696]

My local groomers have told me to use baking soda, but I don't know if it actually works *edited because I accidentally wrote powder instead of soda

[@16Fishwrap16]

Cornstarch is a great safe option to stop bleeding in claw trimmings

[@parisinthe30sx]

@@16Fishwrap16 cornstarch is definitely a good choice. It does work better than flour

[@parisinthe30sx]

@@logangamble8696 I haven't tried baking soda but it should work just fine, just mix a little water and make a paste.

[@janeilnold5863]

Emily, you are an absolute angel for taking in rescues like Edward. I’ve never seen a turtle get to this level of neglect and still be alive! I’m so glad this little guy is in good hands now and will get the proper treatment and care he needs.

[@StonedtotheBones13]

Honestly I don't think either of them can help it 😂 Thinking on Rex, and Quasimodo, these 2 just see a hurt animal and wanna help. And I'm glad adoption island can help so many more.

[@merandahooker30]

Once the shell gets to that point is there any hope of getting him to a better state? Will his shell regenerate to almost a normal state with proper care? I hope to see an update!

[@ILuvAyeAye]

I was curious, and I found an article in Reptile Magazine, called Pyramiding in Tortoises. (I know this isn't a tortoise, but I think it might be similar.) It said that the deformed scutes will not go back to normal, but if the environment improves, the new scutes the tortoise grows will look normal, so it might look a little more normal overall. But it also said this happens slowly, and the environment for the first two years of life seems the most important. So I imagine this little guy won't look "normal" ever, but he seems happy anyway. 🥰

[@ILuvAyeAye]

That article is super interesting though, they had noticed that tortoises kept in captivity tended to have slight pyramiding, even when they had really good nutrition with plenty of protein. (So not as bad as Edward Scissor Hands! But worse than animals raised in the wild.) He found high humidity during the tortoise's first couple years of life fixed that.

[@Goldenrod6901]

This makes me so angry This was not just ignorant husbandry this was blatant neglect. He had to be in years of suffering. This wasn't something where you mess up for a month and suddenly he's Notre Dame Gargoyle baby. This was knowingly torturing an animal. I'm so glad he's in your care and I give him all of my love to recover 💛💛💛

[@MixR700]

yeah this isn't, oh he got sick with an eye infection like the geckos we have seen..... they looked at this poor turtle for ELEVEN years and never once stopped to be like, y'know something doesn't look right with this.

[@jarabotelho5275]

People suck 😔

[@TotalFreakZoid]

@@jarabotelho5275 Alright, Imma say that we can't say that. Sure to us we see it's horrible. My guess was this is misinformation and the constant keeping of turtles and not knowing the proper conditions, environment and of course... diet as Emily explained. This should be a lesson about how to take care of turtles and the consequences of what can happen when you don't do enough research. Not an attack on the people who took care of him.

[@yabi333]

​@Bun the Secret Boss those people suck period. Only get an animal if you are willing to take care of it, and get it looked at if it seems to be having health issues

[@wormtime5695]

i know right?! like how can u care for an animal and see its nails and mouth like that?? i understand not knowing how a shell might look but wtf!! ive never seen a turtle like this and im glad hes being cared for now

[@LuckyStone888]

I've rehabbed box turtles and the pickiest eaters sometimes need bananas, tomatoes, or worms. Bananas and Tomatoes are high in sugar, but putting them on a salad you need them to eat really helps. I never understood pellets or caned Box turtle food, it's pretty easy to find a well balance box turtle diet by using what we humans eat for a healthy life.

[@sandybeck9192]

Same thing with the so unnatural but widely used dry dog food.

[@luci_datum]

I, too, love to eat worms as part of a healthy and balanced diet lol But jokes aside, I can't understand feeding anything dried food like that. Even my fish (and now frog) get live or fresh food, frozen if I'm in a hurry.

[@k.a.u.4599]

Hermit crabs are simmilar - store bought food just doesnt give them what they need, but they eat most things that are kitchen scraps!

[@JeniJade]

I think Edward scissor hands is a perfect name, a pure, beautiful heart but neglected and misunderstood for so long. 💔 Praying for his recovery ❤️‍🩹

[@emmapoynte8002]

Poor turtle...he is adorable though, quite determined, and has a great personality 🥺 you guys did great, hope he gets a great home!!

[@daniellestevenson3616]

I got to see him in adoption island and he was right at the front saying hello to everyone! Hopefully he has doing his forever home.

[@_veronica_r]

I don't understand how anyone can see this and think an animal is *supposed* to look like this...

[@SupremeViola]

Fairly easily when it comes to reptiles. When you see an animal every day, there's not a particular day when it goes from "healthy" to "not healthy", and unlike with cats and dogs where we see healthy ones all the time in our everyday lives to help set the expectation for what we should be seeing, we aren't seeing healthy reptiles all the time in our everyday lives. Put on top of this a lot of pet stores improperly educate people on exotic pet care (the fact that turtle pellets even exist is evidence of this) so people can have good reason to think they're doing everything right when they aren't. I don't say this as an excuse; it's why it's very important for any exotic pet keeper to continuously educate themselves on their pet(s) of choice to ensure they're providing their pets with proper care.

[@sabriguzman]

He has my whole heart. Rooting for him to improve and thrive, he deserves it

[@Vickie-Bligh]

Love isn't always enough. You need to provide adequate food, environment, care. I'm sure Edward's previous owners loved him, too bad they waited so long to get him help. Bless you guys for what you do.

[@smittywerbenjagermanjensen3216]

we need to see how he's doing later in the future. I'm so worried for him, I hope he gets a bit better.

[@katgau6945]

I met Emily and Ed at the NARBC convention, and they are such sweet genuinely kind people! Thank you guys for providing quality educational content that I (and many others) have been enjoying for years! I wish Edward only the best of worms!

[@starfydusty]

So, I know he will almost definitely never be a 100% healthy box turtle, but with ideal care, how far could he possibly recover? Could his shell eventually grow into a healthier shape? I'm really curious!

[@CommanderWiggins]

I know that with turtles their shell can sometimes improve in shape with proper care, but it unfortunately is rarely a drastic change. Although it definitely improves their quality of life!

[@Undomaranel]

Not exactly the same, but when I was a teen I had glasses that didn't fit right. My skull grew around the wire arms, and now in my 30s I still have ridges above/behind my ears. They're not as pronounced as they were, but I'll always have little ridges and archeologists will be able to tell I had eye sight issues from them. A turtle's shell is their bone, and a huge deformity like that? It might even out a little and with some exercise give him more chest space, but there's realistically not much more anyone can do. Shell grows slowly, changes will be gradual and unnoticed as he ages. But he looks like he's able to get around now and has some zest for life, so no matter what his shell winds up doing he'll make the best of it.

[@IIBloodXLustII]

@@Undomaranel I don't think it's because they didn't fit right. I have that as well. I first got my glasses when I was 15.

[@matyaskassay4346]

I don't think so. Bone deformities are usually permanent.

[@cleekersneaker]

I would love an update on Edward!

[@claire-yn2zi]

Poor baby!! I hope Edward Scissorhands finds a wonderful home in the near future

[@scrombleshonks5271]

I actually cried tears of joy when he started trying to eat the worm. Way to go little buddy!

[@Lukksia]

how does someone let it get this bad and not think there’s something wrong, imagine how much outrage there would be if he was a dog or something

[@SN-of5tu]

Edward's story is heartbreaking, but definitely full of hope! I'm glad he persevered, and that you two have taken him. You guys are awesome! He'll defo be a great ambassador to the horrors of neglect in turtules. I hope his story teaches others the consequences of not caring for your animals.

[@thegreatlagi9974]

I've had a box turtle since I was young. While her care wasn't the greatest in the beginning, and I still feel quite guilty that her shell lifts upwards in some places and her colors are dull, I feel validated now that she never got this awful. D: This poor turtle's beak and claws... and it's poor shell is all off... A good reminder to people that turtles shouldn't be bought or taken from the wild without research. They're not beginner animals by any means. Edit: I worry for his little stumpy tail. Hopefully it wasn't rot

[@topazfire974]

Poor little guy 😥 I hope he is OK I love turtles ever since I was a little girl ,, I live in Missouri and during May and June they usually travel on the road and I usually take them off the road top and put them to the side so you can safely go over on the other side of the road so they won't hit by cars. I love turtles

[@CanadianWolf-hearted]

Thank you for showing the tail rot I think my sister's bearded dragon has it so that video may have saved most of his tail!

[@constantconfusion4199]

Dude looks rough.. I hope he ends up in a good home and is ok! Poor boy..

[@megsullivan1992]

Would love to see an update about this cute lil guy!

[@aubryellaotero1064]

It’s like watching this lil guy go the spa/ doctor and get the recovery treatment he needs. 🥺🥺🥺🥺

[@huntercollum869]

I hope one day to be in a position where I can rescue a few "difficult animals" as a pleasure project. Seems to me the hardest to adopt out are the ones most folks aren't able to care for in the first place. The green iguanas and American alligators and giant snakes and the like. They're also the ones that interest me the most. I'd like to get to where I'm one of the exceptions who can keep them humanely but unless you make a business of it you're almost bound to be very limited in the number of large/dangerous animals you can maintain. Still one animal saved must be better than none right?

[@that.neurodivergent]

Absolutely! Check out Corbin Maxey's videos here on youtube, he's a very passionate and compassionate dude, rescued all types of animals including 2 American alligators. I feel like his channel would give you a realistic idea of what that takes!

[@huntercollum869]

@@that.neurodivergent Oh I've looked into it a lot I love his channel in particular. It's not something I say lightly I promise that's why I'm not doing rescues right now as much as I'd like to help those animals. I'd want to do nothing less for a rescue than what he does for his critters. Unless I can do that I'm not in a position to rescue anything of that caliber. For the time being I'll just have to be content with adopting stray dogs and the occasional ball python. Until then I'm just happy I'm fortunate enough to have the space and resources to take care of those properly

[@Nirrrina]

I hope you are too.

[@5Korners]

I had no idea that turtles had quicks in their nails/claws. Learned something new today! I hope he pulls through.

[@melskunk]

Honestly cannot imagine how people could let their pet get to this point, especially the claws, I cannot visualise not thinking "gosh maybe I should trim those" well before this stage

[@lucasafton8616]

I was so surprised by this video because it's rather late for me, but excited to learn more! Thank you for taking in these animals it's truly awesome to see animals be given such great care and to recover greatly!

[@bolezy9070]

I love your videos. Especially these rescue ones. I, myself, run a reptile rescue in Ontario CANADA. These are very helpful. I've never had animals come to me in these conditions, but they are very informative and helpful if I ever do encounter these situations.

[@galaxb33]

I am watching this with my earbuds in on my phone and when my mom looked over my shoulder and saw him looking at the camera, she thought he was a platypus because of the beak. I feel so bad for this guy, hope he’s doing well! I’m getting a ball python for graduation and am so excited, I promise to take MUCH better care of it. They will be the best snek.

[@rosesweetcharlotte]

He doesn't even look like a turtle!

[@galaxb33]

To whomever replied, I can’t see it I’m sorry! KZbin keeps glitching

[@Somedude20282]

I have never seen a turtle in this condition. You and Ed are truly an inspiration to me (and I’m sure so many others too)!

[@katherinebrown5720]

People like you are so incredibly special. Thank you for being you.

[@kosmo4917]

My turtle died at 11 years a couple a months ago. His name was Fiddle and I miss him so much ❤️⚰️ So Thankyou so much for giving this turtle and many other animals another chance in life ❤️

[@panpanmoonriser9768]

1. I hope he goes to an amazing home/hope he is happy and healthy now 2. I love you guys so much 😭🥰 3. Cant wait to see yall at snake discovery the next time I go!!

[@longWriter]

Imagine future paleontologists finding a fossil of this---"It's a new species! Proof birds and turtles are closely related!"

[@tacosnek899]

That's hilarious, but also questionable

[@namelessnavnls8060]

Aww. My mom and I think he's very cute. It's a shame so many turtles are mistreated and end up like this or worse though.. I hope he gets a lovely new home soon! Thank you very much for taking such good care of him, guys!

[@gemtail3125]

I hope whoever adopts him gives updates! I'd love to see how he'd thrive with an owner that knows what they're doing.

[@CullenKawano]

The moment of that first bite was just amazing to watch!!! So So happy he ate and ate and kept on eating!!! so so cute!!!

[@avalin8212]

All I can think of when I see Edward are the turtle-ducks from Avatar Poor adorable little guy, hope he goes to a loving home!

[@osteophagus]

He looks like he's still full of spunk, I think with good care he's gonna do just fine!

[@gene.kcapra399]

I would love a periodical update on your special needs and rescue cases like this dude and blind turtle that you have hatched

[@Imugi007]

"no when no eat, your trickery has offended me" That cracked me up. Poor lil guy. Please give us updates if you're able to keep in touch with his future owner! I hope he turns out okay!

[@Songal18]

This poor kid...great name you gave him, and I am so happy he is with you guys to become the Ornate Box Turtle he was always meant to be. You two are the BEST reptile parents ever.

[@Jalarena]

Poor thing 😢 it’s horrible to think that some animals are like this and left untreated ❤

[@PandaliasKay]

I would ABSOLUTELY name him Professor Finklestein after the Nightmare Before Christmas character! Thank you for taking him in, and doing your best to make him more comfortable. You guys are amazing 💜

[@BPJD2004]

My mother would love to have this guy, I might have to show her this! He would be a really good pet, just not one for holding much. Thank you guys so much for caring for these rescues!

[@uggelebuschele4570]

When we lived in Georgia we had a Boxturtle in the garden, Emelie. We had built a hiding spot and she came out and tuck food from us and staid in the garden.

[@bugtalk84]

I really can't understand why the previous owner allowed for things to get this bad. This is so sad to see.

[@Chaotic_Pixie]

We don't know the story and we don't even know that the person who surrendered him was the one responsible for his care until this point.

[@cicelypatterson3927]

i can get it to a certain point but that beak... that is the line crossed for me, and the nails. No animal's nails should get that long

[@Chaotic_Pixie]

@@cicelypatterson3927 I’ll just say that depression can do a number on a human being… and that’s honestly why I only keep cats now. They won’t let me forget to care for them, even in my darkest days when I can’t manage to care for myself.

[@AabluedragonAH]

@@Chaotic_Pixie yeah… my depression made me put off trimming my turtle’s beak and clipping her nails for months but I’m lucky she was otherwise very lively and I was able to get to them before she accidentally got them caught somewhere. She’s also been eating faster because she doesn’t have to work around a slightly overlong beak tip lol

[@meatballthehammy7410]

@@cicelypatterson3927 agreed. at that point how can you even walk by the enclosure and not feel the need to do something about that? seeing him look so helpless with that overgrown beak and walking around with those huge claws. i agree with the people saying we shouldn’t be judging this person because they’re 100% right we don’t know the situation but whatever the excuse is, i do know it’s not the turtles fault. it’s not the turtles fault the person stopped paying attention or didn’t care enough to research the proper diet he needed, at the end of the day he never asked to be someones pet.

[@ghoultooth]

It was really pleasing to watch you groom this guy honestly, he’s a really sweet lil man. If no one offers to take him on, he could be a good addition to the zoo demonstrating what can happen when people neglect their animals. Either way, I hope he continues on living but with a nice pep in his not-so-long step!

[@anabelcogger7724]

If the nails bleed u can stuff alum in also to stop the bleedin an clean it off before getting into tank

[@crystalheart9]

Poor little sweetheart, thank you for helping him. I hope he is adopted and would love to see an update on his improvement over time.🐢💚

[@GumiMarcy]

Even if he looks like a tiny little duck, he's super adorable 🥰

[@lisaenglert3202]

I think so too 🥰 I’d name him Ducky

[@Keith_30]

My first thought was how he looks like a Japanese kappa demon… He’s so cute tho 😭❤️ I’m glad you have him

[@ParasiteEvel]

Maybe a few years back he couldve been a second Rex! But you guys have so much on your hands today, it shows your heart you guys make time for everything its amazing to see your informative little channel grow into a thriving ethical loving business. Out of everyone you guys deserve it the most! I hope the next home Edward S. gets cares about him the same way you guys do with every one of your critters.

[@Axqu7227]

I love your philosophy on rescue animals- in general, if they want to live, you’ll give them the support so they can.

[@coletteandtulip]

Thank you so much for all that you do for rescuing animals. I'm so glad there are people in this world that care.

[@Ari_-qz8yo]

You guys are awesome with everything and all of the things you take on, cant imagine how much you've all been through and how strong you are

[@Golden_brawl]

I love how you have created adoption island because it has helped out SO MANY reptiles that are in need of the loving and care that y’all give to all of your animals! A lot of animals need love like that and you are the ones who give it💕