Galaxy

Species: Green sea turtle
(Chelonia mydas)

Arrival Date: October 28, 2016
Stranding Location: Palm Beach, FL

Initial Weight: 10.9 lbs.
Current Weight: 11.1 lbs.

Issue: Buoyancy issue (intestinal)
Current Condition: Improving

ADMISSION NOTE:

Galaxy is a juvenile green sea turtle that was found floating near a dock in Boynton Beach. The turtle is lethargic and covered in algae. Radiographs show gas distension of the gut that is compressing the lungs. Air was aspirated from the intestines to relieve pressure on the lungs. The turtle was then placed in shallow water and fed. Galaxy ate right away, but is swimming with the tail end floating higher than the head. Antibiotics and treatments have been initiated.

PROGRESS KEY:

This turtle is progressing well and responding to therapy as desired.

There is a minor issue that we are working to resolve.

More details to follow.

PROGRESS NOTES:

05/31/2017 – Galaxy was released on 5/18 from Biscayne Bay.

05/17/2017 – We are still working on a release for the very near future.

05/11/2017 – The turtle will hopefully be released in the next few days.

05/03/2017 – Galaxy has been medically cleared for release. FWC is working with us on release options in the Biscayne Bay area.

04/19/2017 – Was tagged today in preparation for release.

04/12/2017 – 

04/06/2017 – Galaxy’s white cell count is within normal limits and antibiotics have been decreased.

03/30/2017 – 

03/22/2017 – 

03/15/2017 – 

03/08/2017 – Galaxy’s white cell count has decreased significantly in the last couple of weeks. The turtle has been moved to deeper water to promote diving.

03/01/2017 – 

02/22/2017 – 

02/16/2017 –  The white blood cell count has increased and antibiotics have been adjusted.

02/08/2017 –  The white cell count is being checked today to see how the turtle is doing while off all antibiotics.

01/25/2017 –  

01/12/2017 –  The turtle was radiographed this week. There appears to be no change with the mass near the kidney. We are considering diagnostic and treatment options for this turtle.

01/04/2017 –  

12/29/2016 –  

12/21/2016 –  

12/14/2016 –  

12/09/2016 –  The turtle has been doing well. All tests have been delayed.

11/30/2016 –  Radiographs revealed a small mass near one kidney, but this is not likely the cause of the buoyancy issue. More tests later.

11/23/2016 –  There continues to be a slight buoyancy issue. Radiographs will be taken later this week.

11/17/2016 –  

11/10/2016 –  The turtle still has a slight floatation issue and continues to receive treatment.

11/02/2016 –  Galaxy is a juvenile green sea turtle that was found floating near a dock in Boynton Beach. The turtle is lethargic and covered in algae. Radiographs show gas distension of the gut that is compressing the lungs. Air was aspirated from the intestines to relieve pressure on the lungs. The turtle was then placed in shallow water and fed. Galaxy ate right away, but is swimming with the tail end floating higher than the head. Antibiotics and treatments have been initiated