Hartley was found floating in the Indian River Lagoon, unable to completely dive due to buoyancy issues. Upon arrival, this sea turtle had a severe case of FP tumors on both eyes, both front flippers, neck, shell and had a thin body condition. A tumor blocked vision completely in his left eye and the right eye's vision was questionable.
We performed an enucleation to remove the severely affected left eye and a veterinarian at Animal Eye Center removed the right eye tumor. After a full recovery, Hartley was treated with antibiotics, fluid therapy, good nutrition and clean water and began FP tumor removal surgery. After almost a year in care, Hartley completely healed and was released. Hartley was named in honor of W.D. Hartley Elementary School students who raised money to support the Sea Turtle Hospital.