After celebrating 30 years of practice, I want to assure my patients that I wouldn’t be retiring anytime soon. What better way to prove it then to “hire” a new employee who requires a little bit of assistance?
I’m thrilled to introduce Trevor the turtle, who has been signed to a 15 year contract as a clinic greeter. Trevor, aka “Psycho,” is an incredibly active, friendly six-year-old male Red Eared Slider. He swims out from his cave to greet every patient. When he is not “working,” he is busy rearranging his many rocks in his pond or he is basking on one of his two levels. On weekends, he escapes to his “cottage pond,” where Trevor spends his life plotting his escape or actually trying to run away. As a result he may or may not have lost some privileges!
Trevor is from Little ResQ, an organization near and dear to my heart. The COVID-19 pandemic has more than doubled my hours and taken away time for active animal rescue volunteering, which I’ve longed to get back into.
Adopting Trevor gives me a platform to highlight their plight. Red Eared Sliders are an invasive species in Canada and one of the most abused amphibians. Trevor’s habitat, along with information posted in the office, will help educate people on proper care of turtles and offer resources if they need to be surrendered.
Facts About Red Eared Sliders
- They can live for up to 30 years in captivity
- They grow to be about 12 inches long
- They need a large enclosure with a basking area and a water area
- They are native to the southeastern United States
- They can be found in a variety of habitats, including ponds, lakes, marshes, and swamps
- Red eared slider turtles are omnivores and will eat a variety of foods, including plants, invertebrates, and small vertebrates
- They are popular pets, but are often released into the wild and not properly cared for
The next time you’re in the practice, I hope you’ll stop by and say hello to Trevor–he can’t wait to meet you!
Aug 17, 2022 at 5:59 PM
Congratulations Dr Christine! You are both an amazing human doctor AND every other creatures' doctor. A kind, caring, and extremely talented medical professional. I wish you many more decades of health and happiness. Donna
Aug 18, 2022 at 6:48 PM
Hi Donna! Miss you!! Mom says hi. Hope all is well` sorry you can't meet Trevor in person.
Aug 17, 2022 at 6:27 PM
Great addition to the team! Trevor is adorable.
Aug 18, 2022 at 12:31 PM
I couldn't agree with Donna Bush more! We all know and love how you care for each & every one of your patients and your heart extends to so much more. Looking forward to meeting Trevor when I'm back from cottage country and I'll be sure to wear my Turtle shirt
Aug 18, 2022 at 6:48 PM
He's waiting for you- on behalf of all turtles!!