When Sheldon was brought into the clinic after a dog bite, Dr Bull treated his injuries with care and fashioned a temporary set of Lego wheels to help him move around as he heals.
Boksburg, South Africa (10 November 2025) – Some vets stitch. Some splint. Some might even say ‘sorry, there’s nothing we can do.’
Then there’s Dr Clifford Bull from Craig View Veterinary Clinic in Johannesburg. A man whose resourcefulness, on countless occasions now, has saved animals’ lives. He’s become quite the celebrity for it.
Exhibit A: A tortoise named Sheldon Treges, who is currently cruising around on his very own set of wheels!
Sheldon arrived at the clinic after surviving a dog bite. The injury left part of his shell exposed, which meant he couldn’t safely move around without scraping the wound against the ground. Keeping a tortoise completely still isn’t exactly an option.
So Dr Bull did what he’s become known for at the clinic. He made a plan.
After treating Sheldon for his injury, Dr. Bull kitted out his special patient with a wheeled setup. The makeshift lego ‘skateboard’ keeps pressure off the injury while allowing the little tortoise to cruise about as he pleases. And with greater speed than he’s ever known!
“Dr Bull has made [a] clever plan to ensure his special patient’s comfort by placing Sheldon on a wheeled support, keeping the exposed shell clear of the ground and dirt,” the team shared.
The clinic shared a video of Sheldon scooting along on his new rig, and it’s everything.
Sheldon is healing well on his temporary set of wheels. His human companions have received a crash course on how to care and look out for him at home.
Dr Bull is one of a kind. This news comes days after he treated an Axis deer for a fractured horn. This time, he used sticks and electrical tape to create a brace that will provide support and protection as the horns heal up. The deer will sport Dr Bull’s innovative design for 8-10 weeks until it can be safely removed.
There are many incredible veterinarians in SA who make a remarkable difference, but there’s only one Dr. Bull. His knack for ‘making a plan’ deserves a clap and a lego badge!
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