My red ear slider is sick

Question
Hi!
I'm Kate my RES have a RI (respiratory infection), what should i do for first aid if i am still unable to contact a vet that concerns reptiles?
I'm staying here in uae so its hard to find a vet clinic that concerns reptiles, i tried searching online but i cant find one.
and its my first time having a turtle and its just been 3 month since i got it.
is a normal vet ok?
can they cure my little buddy?

Answer
Hi Kate,

If your turtle has a respiratory infection, it needs a course of antibiotics.  The typical antibiotic used is Baytril, which can be given orally, but in your case would be best given by injection.  I can't tell you the dosage because I'm not a vet, but a regular vet should be able to prescribe it.  The difficult would be in determining the proper dosage for a turtle.  They may have to consult with a reptile vet at a zoo or elsewhere.  I'm afraid that's something I can't help you with.

Disease is often caused by improper conditions (the turtle becomes stressed and loses immunity), so I'm going to link some care information for you below.  It's extremely important that turtles be kept in large tanks with excellent filtration (for a mature RES that means about a 100 gallon tank with external canister filter), good basking area with proper temperatures, adequate UVB, and a good varied diet.  Avoid drafts and overly cool rooms.  Good luck with your turtle.

http://redearslider.com/
http://www.austinsturtlepage.com/Care/caresheet-red_ear_slider.htm
http://www.austinsturtlepage.com/Care/care.htm
http://www.austinsturtlepage.com/Care/waterquality.htm
http://www.austinsturtlepage.com/Care/housing.htm
http://www.austinsturtlepage.com/Care/emergencies.htm