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104-Year-Old Gopher Tortoise Faces Life-Saving Surgery
28 Sep
Summary
- Gus, a 104-year-old gopher tortoise, will undergo surgery next month.
- A urinary stone has grown and is causing discomfort to the tortoise.
- Gus was purchased for $5 in 1942 and brought to the museum.
Gus, a venerable 104-year-old gopher tortoise residing in Halifax, is scheduled for a significant surgical procedure next month. The operation, set for October 13th, aims to remove a urinary stone that has been a concern since its discovery in 2009.
Initially, the stone did not cause Gus discomfort, and a less invasive monitoring approach was chosen due to his advanced age and excellent health. However, a recent CT scan revealed the stone's substantial growth and its pressure on surrounding tissues, prompting veterinary specialists to recommend surgical intervention.
Born in Florida, Gus has been a cherished resident of the Museum of Natural History since 1942, acquired for a modest $5. The public is invited to visit Gus during his daily 3 p.m. walks prior to the surgery. He will be out of public view for several weeks during his recovery.
