Turtle Emergency

How to Handle an Injured Turtle

1. Carefully place the injured animal in a well-ventilated plastic container with a secure lid (turtles can climb!), and no water.

Note: Most turtles can be picked up carefully with two hands. When handling snapping turtles keep a safe distance from their head as they will snap at you if they feel threatened. You may want to use a shovel or board to lift the turtle. Watch our video clip for more tips for handling turtles.

2. Note the location (road, major intersection, kilometer marker) where the turtle was found to ensure it can be released according to provincial regulations.

3. Call us at 705-741-5000. If we don’t answer, leave us a message and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

Note: DO NOT EMAIL with information about an injured turtle. An injured animal needs medical attention as soon as possible.

4. Do not offer the turtle water or food, and do not try to treat the turtle in any way.

5. Wash your hands after handling the animal.

6. If you have to keep a turtle overnight, leave it in the well-ventilated container. Place it in a location that is dark, quiet, room temperature, and away from pets.