Amputated tortoise's leg replaced by a wheel

The 12-year-old African tortoise who recently had one of its front leg removed due to an injury, which was replaced by a wheel by doctors at the Washington State University's veterinary clinic, is presently doing well.

Gamera, the 23-pound tortoise named after the giant flying turtle of the old Japanese monster movies, is increasing its weight and flourishing with his new attachment.

Spokesman for WSU's veterinary hospital in Pullman, Washington, Charlie Powell said that the turtle is specifically good at heading for food, and already gained 3 pounds since the wheel was attached.

According to him, the caster-style wheel permits Gamera to move fine on either flat or bumpy surfaces like lawns. The said wheel should last for years before it needs to be replaced, he added.

The tortoise which experienced a severe leg injury with an unknown cause was brought to the WSU hospital by its owners in April, officials of WSU said. The damage was life-threatening causing the leg to be removed at the shoulder.

Using an epoxy adhesive, veterinarians attached the wheel to the shell of the tortoise and the animal immediately took it, WSU officials said.

Currently, the tortoise is a part of the larger group called 'sulcata' tortoises which are known as exotic pets in the United States. The largest known 'sulcata' weighs 232 pounds, while the oldest tortoise in custody is 56 years old. — GAIL