Snoop Dogg, a juvenile green sea turtle, was found covered in sand on the beach in Duval County January 10, 2014. Shortly after his rescue, Snoop was transferred to Clearwater Marine Aquarium from Volusia Marine Science Center.
Snoop Dogg was admitted into Clearwater Marine Aquarium ICU due to wounds on his shell consistent with a predator attack and fibropapilloma tumors growing around the base of his front and rear flippers. Following admittance and triage, he was sent for CT scans to rule out other abnormalities and internal tumor growth. Tests revealed no additional issues so treatments began with tube feedings, fluids, and wound care on his shell.
Snoop underwent a series of tumor removals, ultimately removing all. His behavior, blood work, weight, and re-growth were monitored and he showed consistent improvement over time. Snoop was released back into the waters in which he was rescued from on November 6, 2014.
In 2014 alone, Clearwater Marine Aquarium has successfully rehabilitated and subsequently released 16 sea turtles. In the past ten years, CMA has provided medical care that enabled 266 sea turtles to be released back into their natural habitat. Duke Energy helps support Clearwater Marine Aquarium’s sea turtle rescue and rehabilitation program.
About Clearwater Marine Aquarium:
Clearwater Marine Aquarium (CMA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit working marine rescue center dedicated to inspiring the human spirit through leadership in education, research, rescue, rehabilitation and release. CMA is home to rescued dolphins, sea turtles, river otters, stingrays, nurse sharks and more. Winter the dolphin’s story of survival after injury that caused her to lose her tail has impacted millions of people around the world. A major motion picture, Dolphin Tale, highlighted her life story in 2011. The sequel, Dolphin Tale 2, was released in September 2014 and features the incredible story of Hope, a young resident dolphin of CMA. The mission and potential to change people’s lives differentiates Clearwater Marine Aquarium from any other aquarium in the world.