Hypothermic Turtles Treated with Acupuncture

The Washington Post/Associated Press reports on an acupuncturist who specializes in treating turtles and was called upon by New England Aquarium to help animals who had been compromised by an exceptionally cold winter and were not responding to traditional veterinary care. 

The turtles were stuck on Cape Cod during unusually cold weather. They developed hypothermia (very low body temperature) and couldn’t move or eat for days. The turtles were taken to the New England Aquarium’s animal care center.

“They haven’t been eating in a couple of weeks,” said the aquarium’s Connie Merigo.

Vets used laser therapy, antibiotics and other treatments to help the turtles. But those didn’t work. So they called in McManus.

The turtles have had three acupuncture sessions, Merigo said, smiling broadly as she described their recent improvements.

“We are seeing improved limb use and improved appetite,” Merigo said. “They are eating on their own, which is fantastic.”