10 Reasons Not To Buy A Pet Turtle Or Tortoise
92Whatever you do, don't buy a pet turtle or tortoise if you're not ready.
It's a little embarrassing to write this article. That's not only because everyone who knows me knows I am a turtle/tortoise nerd, but also because I love turtles and tortoises, to death. You see, although I've read several books on these extraordinaire reptiles, I still have managed to not care for them as well as they need and because of this, several have died under my (lack of) care.
Before I write the list of ten reasons, I just want to point out further that I speak from the pitiful authority of someone who was convinced he had the means and environment to keep such a wonderful pet. Some people I've met can keep a creature alive, but even fewer can keep a turtle or tortoise and have them thrive. For the sake of these beautiful creatures, please read this list first and sleep on it. If you truly think you have the requirements to purchase a pet turtle or tortoise then go forward, but only then!
The 10 reasons not to buy a pet tortoise or turtle:
1. You don't have enough room.
Even the smallest turtles and tortoises require a lot of square footage to live happily. Turtles generally need both an aquatic and a terrestrial environment also. A medium sized tortoise such as a South American Yellow or Red foot requires serious square footage, this doesn't mean they can freely roam your house. Read the next reason to find out why!
2. You can't maintain the correct temperature consistently.
In a mixed attempt at giving my now deceased Red Foot tortoise some more room to roam, I let him amble through my former Chicago apartment. He disappeared! I couldn't believe it! It wasn't until several weeks later that I found his rigor mortised carcass, somehow he had found his way into the only non-heated room in the house. That was the tragic end to that chelonian.
3. You can't give the reptile a secure habitat.
I once had a box turtle named Geronimo, not a good name for a turtle. I thought I had a wonderful habitat set up for him in my yard with over 100 square feet of space surrounded by chicken wire. Either he climbed out or a cat jumped in and claimed him, either way he disappeared within the span of a week.
4. You think you know everything because you read one article or book.
I thought I knew everything because I had read one book about box turtles when I was a kid. I placed three healthy specimens in a barren enclosure on my porch. All three perished, overheating in this enclosure which didn't provide the required temperature gradient or shelter needed by all reptiles. It was also too small, and lacked substrate. You will find a lot of conflicting information on turtles and tortoises published as if in great authority. You need to read several sources, to see the inconsistencies. I believe you need to read several more sources (at least four or more) to begin to understand the high level of care required.
5. The species you seek for a pet is an endangered or threatened species.
This arguably could be #1 on the list but I wanted to get some of the extreme cautions out of the way first. Where I live, in Wisconsin in the States, there formerly was a large population of box turtles. Hundreds of thousands of these were sold to the pet trade and to educational/medical suppliers in the past four decades. They are protected now, but I fear it's too late. I've been looking for them in the wild all my life and never seen a one. It's the same all over the world: Asian, Indian, African (especially Madagascar species) are all on decline. In many parts of the world owning some species is against the law.
6. They carry disease.
I once cuddled up with my Red Foot tortoise and fell asleep only to wake up with a putrid warm and wet turd planted inches from my nose. Tortoises can carry Salmonella and herpes to name two of the more upsetting diseases out there. Although the claims that all small turtles carry Salmonella are dubious, anyone handling these creatures would do well to constantly wash their hands after handling. Oh yeah, and don't take naps with them. Or give them to kids that might lick them or their fingers after handling.
7. You can't give your turtle or tortoise an adequate diet.
Most turtles and tortoises are omnivores, though some are strict vegetarians and others carnivores. Each species has not only a varied requirement, but in many cases, a very specific list of foods usually only available in their home range. Whatever you do, don't think you can feed your pet only pellets from a pet store, this is a death sentence. All turtles and tortoises need a lot of fresh food.
8. If you own a dog or cat, don't risk buying the Chelonian unless you can keep them 100% separate!
My roommates had an ornery pet Chow. I came home from work one day to find the dog tearing open the box turtle, half eaten. It was a tragedy. Also, about a month later the dog mysteriously died. I've read that many box turtles carry built up levels of toxins in their bodies because they eat mushrooms and other things that are poisonous to most other animals.
9. You can't afford a head-started hatchling.
In another mixture of misguided lack of animal husbandry I bought a half year old leopard tortoise because he was cheap, around $100 American. I had his enclosure too close to a window, it was not encased because I thought that being a tortoise it meant that he didn't need to be in a tank type enclosure. I was wrong. At that tiny size that creature needed a strictly monitored humidity and temperature that were grossly absent in the enclosure I provided. I brought the hatchling to a veterinarian where he administered a vitamin that brought him around for a few days. But being the arrogant youth that I was I thought I knew better and brought him home to his former enclosure instead of taking the vets advice and putting him in a enclosed tank until he was larger. The tortoise perished a few days later.
10. You want an exotic pet for a status symbol.
This is maybe the worst reason to buy a turtle or tortoise. It means your heart is not in it, you will not be taking all the steps necessary to care for this environmentally needy pet. If you want people to know how interesting you are, read a book or buy a Rolex. Leave these vulnerable creatures out of it.
Here's an image of a great hatchling sulcata tortoise specimen
In conclusion, if you must, get well informed.
If you must buy a turtle or tortoise, read a lot about them. Ask about them from people, trainers, vets or zoo keepers who successfully care for these delicate creatures. Just because they have a shell does not make them indestructible.
I feel that I have opened myself up to ridicule here but so be it. I deserve it, I should be ashamed of my gross mistakes in Chelonian husbandry and I am. But I hope that this article at least, will give some people second thought at purchasing a turtle or tortoise. Once you buy one, they are not easy to rehome, I guess that's reason #11. Generally Zoos and pet stores don't want them because they could carry some strain of disease that would infect their current herd. Releasing tortoises further decimates native populations by introducing new competition and disease in the environment, there's reason #12. Well, I encourage anyone with a knowledgeable opinion in the matter to leave more reasons below in the comments section.
I have vowed to never purchase another turtle or tortoise again, unless I own a property where I can provide the absolute best in reptilian environments. Please take into careful consideration all the many needs these animals require. They are wonderful and fascinating creatures, that need so much more care than a book that is trying to sell itself for profit, will inform you. If you must buy one, don't be afraid to buy a red eared slider as they are one of the easiest to take care of, and also one of the few species that is actually doing too well as it invades other environments of less egg laying species. Even in the RES' case though, because they are an aquatic species, they have a dynamic (read: odoriferous and gooey) bioload that needs to be filtered and cleaned frequently. This point was duly noted by one of my readers named Taylor who writes an eloquent rebuttle comment on why Russian Tortoises make far superior and easier to maintain pets than Red Eared Sliders. Namely, they don't need a tank full of water to stay happy, thusly they are that much easier to keep thriving. Please read her comment below to find out more.
Box Turtles absolutely are not for beginners, nor are Red Foots, Spider Tortoises or Pancake Tortoises to name a few. Choose wisely, and don't be afraid to consult and listen to a veterinarian if you need help.
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I feel they are my spirit animal, so you can see my pain in writing this Nicomp. Most turtles and tortoises live a very long time. Thanks for stopping by!
We had a pet turtle when I was a kid. It seems it lived for about 5 years and was accidently killed though I don't remember the details. Nice Hub. I like turtles and always stop to give them a helping hand across the street.
This is one of those metaphor stories isn't it? You are a good writer and this story was tops. Thanks for sharing. Bearclaw
suziecat, thanks for sharing and for the compliment. I try to help them across the street too, I just always try to make sure and figure which way they are going first!
bearclaw, thank you also for the kind words. I really appreciate the encouragement! The only metaphor I can think of for this story, is that as bright as I might appear at times, I still have had a long history of being a bone head! Haha, but it feels good to not take myself too seriously all the time.
Thanks for reading!
Please forgive me as I got a chuckle in a few parts of this but only because I can relate. I enjoyed reading this and I had no idea it was so difficult to raise turtles. We all embark on schemes with good intentions sometimes and make a mess. Makes us human.
Do you mind if I link this to a hub I am writing?
Not at all Tammy link away! I am glad you find humor in it, I need that.
If you have a sometimes dark sense of humor as I do you might find this funny also. Once my daughter and I traveled two hours to get to a nearby nature preserve to look for turtles. On the way there I drove my car up a hill and at the top? A turtle, I couldn't steer away in time and it got obliterated underneath my giant Mercury. Oh well.
Thanks for stopping by and for following my words!
That was interesting and I learned a lot from it. Thank you.
Oops... you made me laugh out loud. I guess I really do appreciate dark humor.
Hello hello: Glad to oblige, thanks for stopping over!
Tammy: Sometimes we have to laugh just to keep from cryin' right?!
Hey,
I thought that this was interesting, and I enjoyed reading it, though personaly I think I would rather cry when I run over a turtle than laugh, but that's just me.
polkadotthoughts, you are right. I would first cry too. The turtle tortoise is a vast spirit animal, but humor has a place too. Mosty I fear for the future of this species, I want them off of menus (the rare kind, which is most) and I wish there was more preservation of their habitat.
Ben
Our teacher used to have an exotic turtle, and made the students clean the cage. I usually got out of this duty, but one time I protested to having to clean it. She remarked it was a class pet and we were all responsible for taking care of it, but honestly I just did not feel that way. If the teacher wanted to have a pet turtle at home that is one thing, or even clean its cage herself, but to make kids do it? Seriously, I just do not think teachers would get away with this today, which shows how times have changed.
Ha, I'm envious! But I get your point sweetiepie!
I had a Biology teacher who used to keep to large snapping turtles, nobody was allowed to clean their enclosure there would've been lost fingers!
Turtles are so much more work than they at first appear.
I had a pet turtle when I was five years old. I awoke one cold winter morning to find him (gender assumed) dead on the window sill.
I don't know why he'd parked himself on that icy sill. I told myself at the time that he'd been there to keep an eye on the dragons and demons that always lurked outside my window after dark.
I cried a lot that morning. I have yet to find a turtle who could take his place.
As for number 5, you'll find in many states, it's illegal to have native species as pets anyway.
Salmonella is rare to actually contract from reptiles. You'll find in comparison to the number of reptiles kept as pets, the salmonella cases from pet reptiles is pretty minute. Check out my hub on salmonella from reptiles.
Tortoises and turtles are actually quite simple to keep as pets. Just have to do the research for THAT particular species. Space, diet, and husbandry are big issues that most people don't know how to maintain for the particular species. Kind of like how you like to get tons of turtles/tortoises with assumption of knowing how to care for them. You should always know how to care for the reptile/pet before getting one. Never assume.
Another reason not to release into the wild is because not all species will thrive in your local. They'll simply be doomed from their release minute.
By the way red foots are one of the best beginner tortoises, as are box turtles from my understanding (haven't done much research on box turtles).
Oh and yes the picture at the top is a Sulcatta.
Niteriter, thanks for sharing your personal tribute to our shelled friends, maybe now he protects you from the demons and dragons in the spirit world.
Whitney, thank you for the added affirmation. I agree with you about the Salmonella misconception, my research all said it's rare too.
As for Box turtles, I stand by my original claim that even though they are marketed as beginners turtles, in fact they are not. The reasons for this are two fold, one is that they are actually tortoises not turtles and as such require more room. Also they are mostly a hibernation species and I have seen with my own eyes how poorly they will do if not properly hibernated. On top of that my research has shown they are fickle eaters.
I agree with you about Red Foots, they are easier to care for, although most beginners probably have never seen a full grown in person, where they can reach a foot and a half long, that might be a lot of reptile for a beginner to handle.
Thanks so much for your advice Whitney!
It's funny you say it's rare, yet in your hub you say it's a problem that people should consider to not getting a tortoise/turtle.
All turtles/tortoises require a lot of room, that alone is not going to determine whether the animal is a good beginner or not unless the amount of required room is excessive, such as a sulcatta or leopard tortoise. When housed properly, box turtles are great beginner pets. You do not have to hibernate while in captivity. You would be the first to say box turtles are finicky eaters; I've always heard great things about them as beginner pets.
Red foots are considered a medium sized tortoise, but in terms of temperament and captive care they are STILL considered beginner tortoises.
One aspect about a species, does not necessarily determine whether it's a good beginner or not, unless the one aspect is a major concern. Sulcattas are great tortoises to have as pets, but they're not for beginners as they require LARGE amounts of space.
In a way, it's like ball pythons. They're considered beginner snakes because of their temperatment and eas of captive care, but in terms of their finicky feeding habits, they're one of the worst. That one aspect of care does not change that it's still a beginner snake. I warn about the feeding habits to beginners as something to keep in mind, but they're still great beginner snakes.
I understand what you're getting at Whitney, what I am trying to say is, despite what many books say, my actual experience with box turtles proves that they are more than a beginners turtle/tortoise.
Here is a link that says why:
Oh, Ben, just get yourself an alligator snapping turtle. There's one in an aquarium near here that must be 4-5 feet long. He looks tough enough to take your arm off and would probably be pretty hard to kill as long as he was kept warm and well fed! lol
Ben, you raise an interesting point. I've never been much into pets, but virtually any living creature needs a fair amount of knowledgeable attention. When we can't give it, well--the results aren't too good.
When I was a kid, we could find turtles crawling through the back yard, and a friend had a turtle he brought to school (he might have called it Phil--it's hard to remember that far back...). I never tried to keep one as a pet, but their slow and methodical movements was somehow comforting to me--unlike the manic yapping of a small dog.
Habee, I went fishing in a small pond once and caught a snapping turtle--those babies mean business! I thankfully managed to free him without too much struggle.
Thanks, Ben. This was a fun read, as always.
habee, I owned a small snapper when I was a kid, they are tough mothers! They'll eat damn near anything too!
Mike, I agree with you, it's something about their methodical movements. I've always considered turtles to be my spirit animal. There's something appealing in their meditative quality too.
Thank you for the generous compliments on my article!
Interesting hub man. I love turtles and always help them cross the road when they are trolling along. I can't imagine owning a pet tortoise though.....you need SO MUCH space for an animal like that and it can never be trained like a dog or horse. Maybe you can train a tortoise, I'm not sure. I do love have a fascination with turtles myself though.
Hmm... I was just saying that your experience alone isn't the best to go off of. I'm going off of several others that have raised them and have all agreed they're pretty simple to care for.
Do you have any concerns with getting a Russian Tortoise as a beginner pet? I am really passionate about one day owning and taking care of a tortoise, but I want to start out slow
Thanks for reading Abi!!!
You have made an interesting choice in the Russian/Afghan Tortoise. Did you know they are the coldest/highest elevation hibernating tortoise species! From what I have read they are a very vigorous species and do well if you can house them outside in a well protected enclosure. They also don't tolerate high humidity.
There is a lot to read and prepare for before you buy, check out the World Chelonian Trust website for care, they are a great place to do more research!
http://www.chelonia.org/care.htm
I wish you and your future pet well, Russians are fascinating little tanks!!!
thanks for the information about this animal .I never had turtle. And rather see turtle. Because turtle is not a common pet animal in my area.
We only have two common turtles left in my area too Prasetio30!!! The Painter and the Snapping turtle, all the box turtles in Wisconsin have nearly disappeared! I'm into just "seeing" them too! Thanks for reading Prasetio!
Well, I guess I don't have much to add. But, I thought it was nicely written. I don't care much for turtles, let alone want one as a pet. LOL But, I did enjoy your hub. :)
Thanks Cagsil, turtles are definitely not for everyone! I appreciate the compliment though...thanks for stopping by!
Ben, thought I'd let you know my boyfriend was talking to a coworker about my reptiles, and she threw in that she has two box turtles. She has no other reptile experience and have had them alive and healthy for over 6 years.
By the way, I'm pretty excited to start a chelonian website soon. I've got the domain, but I have 4 other websites my designer is working on before he gets to that one. It'll have loads of info on turtles, tortoises, and terrapins.
This is a really great hub !!! I worked in a pet store for a couple of years and people who came in looking to buy a turtle was amazed that they needed a heating light, basking light, live crickets and ect to maintain them properly. Infact we would refuse some people from purchasing these great little creatures because they refuse to buy the stuff that was needed claiming we were only out to make a bigger sale, which was not true. We gave great care to these creatures and we wer'nt going to issue them a death warrent by releasing them to people who wanted to disregaurd properly caring for them.
Very helpful hub. When I was a kid I had a Slider turtle for a pet that came from a department store. He lived a few years. He probably could have lived much longer elsewhere I suppose. He liked fresh live fish. I would hold them for him by their tails and he would eat them. They should not have sold those little creatures back then. My big cat Boo is back on my desk being sweet again. Cats are a successful venture in our home. Thanks for sharing knowledge.
Whitney, thanks again for your infinite wisdom.
Army Infantry Mom, I wish the world had hearts as big as yours. Mostly people in the pet trade are just trying to make a buck, mostly people like you and those you worked with are hard to find. Thank goodness some people are going the extra mile to care for our animals.
Stars: I have heard of many people who lived out similar situations but refuse to talk about it for fear of retribuition. I appreciate you honesty and hope for the best for the future of chelonians!!!!!!!!!
Well I have read this in the reverse order that it was written, but now have more understanding and awareness. Again I thank you for sharing your knowledge. I always wondered why my pet turtle died and its shell became all smushy as I called it, back then when I was a kid. We didn't know what we were doing, obviously.
Thanks Jen, it sounds like the one you had probably needed more sun or better artificial light, I did that to one of the ones I owned too! Thanks for the validation lady!
Great information. I love turtles among many other creatures.
Thanks lovelypaper, me too. I can't wait for the day when I have the resources to buy a turtle or tortoise again. Meanwhile, I just look at pictures and read articles!
This is a great article ben! I have to admit, the reason I read this article in the first place was because I thought I would have 10 better reasons to buy one of these lovable animals (I am the proud owner of a tortise) but you proved me wrong! I think turtles and tortises everywhere are better off now that this article has been written.
Thanks lilnohu! It's great that there are well informed keepers like yourself out there! Glad I could surprise you! I can't wait to have turtles or tortoises again, it may be awhile though!! What kind of tortoise do you have?
Hi. It was a very interesting reading. I just bought a sulcata tortoise two days ago. I got it for my daughter. She saw it at our local pet store and fell in love with it. She begged us for over two weeks and finally my husband and I decided to get it for her birthday. It is just now that I'm searching the web about care, food, handling, etc, that I am realizing ALL the work that we will need to do in order to keep our new pet safe.
We live in Oregon, so the winters are long... We have a big back yard, a good habitat in the summer, but in the winter 'our friend' will be inside. It's only a tiny baby now, it fits in my palm. I really don't know how quickly it will grow to put us in a predicament. I need to do more research. After reading all this, my daugther said that when our tortoise gets really big we would have to move, maybe to Costa Rica, (where I'm from, by the way).
Let's see how we do in about 10 years!!!
Debbie I wish you the best. The smallest enclosures I've seen for full grown sulcattas are about 3 x 6 feet. Be sure to keep the hatchling in a small enclosure for awhile while it's young, especially in the winter when drafts are bad. Don't forget sulcattas don't like too much wet food (too much fruit is bad, too much spinach is bad, lots of grass, clover, mulberry leaves, etc) there is a wealth of information on sulcattas on the web! I wish you and your daughter the best of luck, and get that little guy outside in the summer when you can!!! Let me know how it goes!
Ben
Great insights into owning turtles - I agree they are not for everyone.
Thanks gogetter! It's a difficult thing to be honest with yourself regarding pets! For example, I love dogs, but over the years I've realized I'm not very good at caring for them properly. Thank you for the comment!
Thank you!
Thanks for reading Turtleperson!!!!
Ben
this took great courage to write and to remark on the comments! you prove yourself a turtle lover and one day you will have your spirit animal with you I just know it! very well written, informative hub!! way to go!! barbara b
That was a very interesting article, I really relate to what you're saying. I have a RES which was given to me as a gift. I had treated it very badly for a few weeks due to the false knowledge I was given about it. I had him in a small tank with barely any water and nothing to bask on! Soon I read a lot about turtles and was horrified at what I had put the poor guy through. I soon revamped everything but my poor guy still managed to get pneumonia, swollen eyes and he refused to eat too... After 3 months of antibiotics, supplements, heat, vet visits and constant care i finally brought him around and now he's better than ever. I just wish that I would have started on the right foot with him so I could have saved him a lot of pain. I definitely know now to research everything possible before getting a pet. In fact,I found this article when researching how to keep my future tortoise. :)
I love animals and that is why I am not a strong advocate of pets. Turtles are used as pets because they are small and not overly aggressive but they are not domestic by any stretch of the imagination. Turtles are wild animals and should be kept in a natural turtle habitat.
This same idea should be applied to many small, non-aggressive animals that people mistakenly think are domestic.
Thanks for sharing this! It's very true, that turtles are not for everyone and are by no means "easy" to take care of! I've had my Russian Tortoise for eight years now, and I'm still learning more and more about her each day. Definitely has a personality, and potty-trained. I think my tortoise and I have been more attuned to each other over the years, and I now know when she wants certain things - she asks for it, and in return, she courteously poops in one designated area. To be honest, I'm surprised she's trusted me this long. Thankfully, I'm more able to provide better care for her than when I first got her. Thanks again!
RNMSN: thanks kindly for the comment I've been thinking about your encouragement and it I wanted to say thanks, for noticing and giving me some redemption! Here's to a great enclosure in the future!
Ben
Nisha: thanks for sharing the story of your RES. I appreciate you commiserating and illustrating that lots of people have fallen into the trap of thinking that caring for turtles and tortoises is easy. Good for you for going the extra mile and getting the antibiotics your pet needed! Also, I appreciate the compliments and that you found my article looking (researching) for care of turtles, excellent!
Ben
mbj: good point! turtles indeed are wild animals and in many ways do not make good pets. However, in many parts of the world, their habitat is completely gone, so where are they to go? Protection for turtles and tortoises is scarce and not enforced in many places. Since so much of their habitat is destroyed, I hope that those who do take on a chelonian, can at the very least, become good stewards.
eltee4: thanks for sharing your tribulations with your Russian! What a special breed the Russians are! The species that lives in the coldest, highest altitudes in the world, amazing! To hear you recognize his "personality" is not surprising, they are great spirit keepers!
Ben
Interesting article thanks for sharing. I'm a first time turtle owner who ended up with a baby box turtle found in our backyard. The day I found him I spent all day reading everything I could and took a lot of notes. Yes, raising them is very complicated and not for someone who is in it half-heartedly, but I think they make a great pet if you're willing to put in the effort required to care for them.
I come from an area where they seem to be around a lot and have seen quite a few in the wild. I saved one from being run over a few days ago by stopping my car and moving him off the road.
I think the important thing is if you don't think you can care for your pet adequately then don't get it - or if it was from the wild put it back. I would put my little guy back in the wild in a heartbeat if it looked like he wasn't a happy healthy turtle.
Hi,
I run an animal rescue in Mo. I stopped one the hiway yesterday after a truck hit a box turtle. It crushedd its back shell and I really thought it was dead. I went ahead and picked it up and noticed a few minutes later after seeing the blood began to slow down...it was alive. I put it in a little warm water and with hemastats rearranged the shell. I had nothing else to use to hold it, so I used small pieces of duct tape. It seemed to be paralised, however, it can move its back legges. (not walking yet), just dragging, but when I touch the feet it draws them in. Last night, I debreved it with warm water, & it seems to be slowly moving, still catering to its legs in the rear. He can move quite well however with the front. I read that antibiotics are not always the answer, but I have injectibal cephalexan. I just wondered what you feel I should do. I have a little land and a small pond, but wouldn't of course release him, unless he improves. My hope is the shell heals, there is one open place(missing shell) the size of a quarter. He is the size of a womans hand. If you can, just give me some advice. I agree with your article fully, that we help them, then release them...unless we can provide the best. I only adopt out dogs when the perfect setting comes up. They are better off dead than abused or neglected. Thanks ahead for any help!
Hi Ann, sorry to hear about the injured box turtle. It sounds like you are already getting veterinary advice, if not I would pursue some. Clearly yours needs some expert medical advice.
I appreciate your open and truthful account.
I have seen footage of tortoise shell repair using a type of netting, although I'm not sure what it was made of, possibly plastic or cotton. Also,Vitamin D injections in the correct increment can aid their immune systems.
I appreciate that you care enough about turtles to admit you don't know everything about them and that you are seeking out advice at multiple venues. No one among us is perfect, although some fools believe they are.
So get some veterinary council, hit the library, maybe check The Chelonian Trust and Kingsnake.Com they have some information on various species.
I wish you the best of luck with your box and I hope he comes through.
Ben
Ann,
A lot of vets will use fiberglass to patch the shells. Make sure you have a knowledgeable reptile vet do it, though. I've seen mine repair shells, beaks, and other ailments (none were my turtles, we do reptile rescue)
Good luck with your little guy.
Ben,
That was a well written article. We receive so many turtles (mostly box and sliders) that haven't been cared for properly, or just aren't wanted anymore when they become too much work. I wish people would think before they impulse buy a high maintenance animal, or any animal for that matter.
Thank you so much Kathy, you're compliment comes at a good time for me, as I have received some acerbic criticism for making these mistakes recently. I guess my point was that I thought I had learned enough for the different situations, partly because of incomplete information from single sources.
Thanks for the added information about the fiberglass shell repair!
Ben
Okay, well, I once had a turtle two or three years ago. I loved him! He did well, however, after a few months, my mother brought an item from the pet store to put in his tank, and the item hadn't been cleaned properly or something, and my turtle (Napoleon) sadly died. I was devestated for a while...
But! I'm soon going to be getting a turtle again, which I'm very excited about! But firstly, I'm digging a pond outside, and we're making the little guy an enclosure out there. But since it has been a while since I've had a turtle, I'm brushing up on my knowledge about turtles. I love all animals, and I'm absolutely prepared to get another turtle. I know that my mum has successfully raised at least two turtles (The inncident with Napoleon, I really don't know...).
But, yeah, I didn't realize until I started looking on the internet that so many people thought turtles were easy to care for. I always get prepared for a new pet, like when I was getting my first dog; I ran around getting everything I had read that he needed before I got him! And it's been two years, and my dog, Rex, is a great friend!
I've never seen animals as pets (Even though I still call them that), but they're more friends. Even when I walk past a horse in a paddock, I wave to it like a human... Is that weird, haha? I've always befriended more animals than humans! Four years ago, when I was ten, I had a fair few animal friends. I still occasionally see them around and say hello :)
But, anyway, thanks for the info. It was cool. I'm gonna make sure I'm extra careful about looking after my pet turtle!
Well Wednesday Taylor, my wife and I just read your letter and I must say, you have quite a way with words. In four years when you're 18 you'll have to come back and write for hubpages!
As for your turtle, I suspect you might be in the UK? If so, just be sure that the new member of the family will be warm outside! If it gets colder than his species can handle, remember he will probably need to be brought indoors. If you are to hibernate him he will need a very specific type of environment and protection from predators. If it doesn't get too cold in your neck of the woods, but some, don't forget they do sell heater pads that will work to some degree, but not to an extreme. If it snows, they need to be inside.
I also see animals as friends. As long as you don't carry your pet turtle into the grocery store and ask his opinion on food items while you are there, I think you are in the clear! Animals can sense just the way we do. They feel pain, they feel kindness and they are aware.
Good for you for being a friend to animals, they need us!
Ben
You really changed my mind. i was thinking to keep one turtle as a pet as i always wanted to keep a pet turtle since my childhood but never had a chance to buy one. now i am thinking to forget this idea of keeping a pet turtle.
Personally all that is aload of cods wally.
One who would ever let a tortoise or exotic animal run free the house i dont know. thats bad from the start. As regards dogs and cats - that is down to the dog and cat itself. I had 2 tortoises, sadly rehomed due to moving property...my cats were fine...they just walked away or jumped high where the tortoises couldnt reach. The dogs were great to, they just had a sniff and buggered into the yard or another room. Not ALL animals are dangerous with tortoises or other exotic animals.
a pet is not a pet...they are animals, friends, companions. Tortoises included. However, never hug or cuddle them! one turning them up straight could scare them...and then you've got the problem of they do carry diseases and pathogens only fine to be mixed with their own species...not others. its always best to wash handds have handling them. Tortoises shouldnt really be cuddled anyway.
Fatima, I don't want to hinder you from purchasing a turtle or tortoise. I just want you to prepare for it well, they are more difficult to care for then some would have you believe! If you do, I hope you find yours to be the Great Spirit animal that I believe them to be.
Best of luck,
Ben
I just wanted to say that I'm grateful to have found this article and thank you for writing. I have always been drawn to turtles. One could say they are my spirit animal. I would love to own one and am seriously considering getting one....at some point. You really opened my eyes to some important things to consider here. As much as I would love to care for a turtle friend of my own, I also would be devastated to fail/hurt/kill one. I will be doing a lot more research and if/when I feel I can support/raise a turtle successfully...I'll do some MORE research and then begin to seriously consider it.
Thanks Chloe. It's been a trying time fielding the different responses to this article! I get scolded and scalded! Glad to hear I opened your eyes to the challenges. People interested in selling you turtles and/or supplies and the will tell you it's very easy to care for chelonians but there is a lot more to it if you want the creature to be happy and healthy.
Glad we share the same spirit animal. Turtles and tortoises are keystone species in many environments and they need good stewards both as pets and as wild animals.
Best,
Ben
I have a Sulcata, he's 5 years old, very healthy, very happy, and he's the most low maintenance pet I've ever head!
Waaaay more low maintenance than a dog or cat!
I love it Not Buying It. I am close to buying my first house and maybe, after many years without, of getting another turtle and / or tortoise.
Thanks for the advocacy of sulcattas, they're tough little buggers! I heard of one surviving over winter in the midwest here once!
Ben
Interesting points Ben.I have always wondered how people take care of such a pet given that it is very independent.
Interesting...can turtles really transmit the herpes virus?
Thanks Alladream, they are independent in their own way, I see that, thanks for your insight.
Cheers man,
Ben
Melissa, transmit I'm not sure, but carry, yes. I don't know if it's the same type or not (as in feline HIV versus human) and non-transmittable or if there exchanged say through fluid. Either way I'm careful when handling for that or other unknown disease.
If you find more let me know and I'll make and edit!
Cheers
Ben
Good article Ben, I got my sulcata by accident, I met him when he was a silver dollar and he finally came to live with me when palm sized and deathly ill, his clutchmate has died recently. I went into full crash course mode, joined chats, figured out what species he was and researched like crazy while he was in the hospital for 9 days trying to stay alive. He came home, actually looking worse than better, but the URD was under control, stress was still life threatening though. It took me months to get him to eat a little more every day, he took warm baths daily, our yard was pitiful but we did the best we could, I grew grasses in little containers, watched the petunias being pulled up 2 seconds after I planted them and he got stronger and stronger, he gained a whole pound our first year together. I got better at the yard work, and Galileo really started to look like he was finally thriving in captivity, 2nd year he gained 2 pounds, 3rd year he gained almost 5 pounds and the last 3 years, we got a much bigger yard and his weight gain has been closer to 15 pounds per year. He's been a great part in my life, but it wouldn't have happened if I took the easier road, by not giving this maginficent beast the respect he deserves. Thanks again for your straight forward approach, dinosaurs like Galileo wish there were more breeders and store owners who thought more about the animal than profit. Smiles
i was exited of a turtel i have 1 dog and fish es and a peare thank the dog is my brother and the fish are my mums and the tertulse could be myn but know i dont realy want one know
I absolutely agree with you Ben, I struggled with getting things right with my sulcata. it was tough in the beginning having to crash course AFTER he came to me. Luckily I was able to pull it off, the 1 pounder I received in 05 is now a whopping 60+ pounds and thriving. Smiles
Turtles have a unique form of herpes virus that is not transmittable to humans. Not all turtles are infected with it.
Human herpes viruses are not transmittable to turtles.
Nice article. It makes a few great points. I have to agree whole heartedly on the space thing--even with something like a Russian tortoise, among the smallest, easiest care tortoises in captivity, you need something along the lines of 6x2 ft for the tortoise to thrive (with bigger always, always being better!).
I think the one thing I'll have to respectfully disagree on is your comment toward the end of the article, stating "If you must buy one, don't be afraid to buy a red eared slider as they are one of the easiest to take care of..." Though RES are tough little snots and great turtles, they are by far not the easiest to take care of. I've found my Russian tortoises to be infinitely easier than my one 4" juvenile Red Ear Slider, and he's not even full grown! The thing about aquatic turtles that make them consistently tougher than any land-dwelling turtle or tortoise I've kept and/or cared for is the fact that you're not just taking care of a reptile, who still has all the complications of "Are the temperatures right? Is the space big enough? Am I feeding the right foods?" but also all the complications of keeping a large fish tank with a very heavy bioload--"Is the filtration strong enough? Are the ammonia/nitrates/nitrites all at safe levels? Is that algae bloom getting under control?" Making them, at least in my honest opinion, three times as difficult as the average land-dwelling chelonian. The adult size of a Red Eared Slider is by no means helpful--6-8" for a male, up to 1 full foot for a female. And if you set up a proper environment, that means you're not only maintaining a reptile, but a 75-120 gallon (or LARGER) aquarium, as well! Few people are genuinely prepared for this--to be honest, even fewer people are capable of this responsibility than are capable of caring for a relatively simple small- to mid-sized tortoise.
Your article is well-written, well-intentioned, and makes many wonderful points. I do make one humble request, though: That you change the above quoted sentence, and remove your recommendation of arguably the toughest to care for "common" turtle or tortoise on the market. Red ear sliders have it tough enough already, with people keeping them in 10 gallon tanks their whole lives, or only feeding them once a week, or never giving them light, or dumping them on the side of the road when they find out they'd been lied to when told "They won't get bigger than 2 or 3 inches!", only to be attacked by a dog (like one brought into the store I work at earlier this week) or run over by a car--or all of the above combined into one awful series of events.
If you must make a species recommendation, it would behoove you to steer more toward something like a Russian tortoise. Though they still aren't the most simple pet to take care of and still have significant space requirements for their relatively small (4-8" average adult) size, they are still arguably the single hardiest turtle or tortoise species on the market, and, IMO, among the easiest Chelonians to take care of.
Great article!, entertaining and educational! I've lost three sliders and inherited a beautiful Russian tort who spent nine years confined like a political prisoner in a small terrarium. No wonder he spent all day banging his head against the wall! Fortunately I found some wonderful owners who could provide a spacious yard, fresh air and the right diet. As you pointed out, tortoises and turtles are NOT toys, they are living breathing creatures who need proper care and husbandry.
My son came home with a box turtle from Pliladelphia. I dont know if i should let it free.. I live on the Rehoboth Bay and near alot of trees and woods...
Thnx for this post. Wish i had read this before purchasing my turtle on a beach trip. i just rcently bought a red ear slider and taking the advice from the novalty shop you buy a half gal tank ,a few pellets, and a palm tree and your set. Wrong!!!!! I have been for the past week researching what a turtle needs Habitate,diet,temp,and lighting and have found my self hundreds of dollars in this animal. I have recently bought an adiquate sized aquarium (10 Gal per inch of tutle),UVB light,krill,shrimp,crickets,pellets,fresh veg,heat light ,water heater,plants,and more. I read and look at documents and videos on youtube and have entered a whole world of info about these creatures. I am doing everything possible to give this little girl the best of everything but there is always that possibility knowing now what i didnt then that it may not be enough. I am enjoying watching her (Shelby) Bask in her uv light and swim around her tank. They are awesome. Thnx for writing this article for it came up on my searches for turtles.
Springpace thank you for your endearing testimony. I love the name Galileo for your tortoise. Sulcatta owners definitely face their own set of challenges handling those big brutes! Keep up the good work, it sounds like he has a wonderful home.
Best,
Ben
Hi Ben, it looks so darn easy when you see someone who has a chelonian to raise and has had it a long time. I went by Galileo's previous owner, boy was it wrong! I reposted your article on my FB page 4 weeks ago and it's still getting comments. It's a good article from the POV of what every owner whether experienced or not should be reminded of on a regular basis and I'll keep refreshing it in hopes that it reaches even more people around the world. Galileo is a great guy. Lots of positive reinforcement still happens between us. I do know that if I ever decide that if another shelled species ever comes my way, I'd have to start learning all over again. Smiles
Wow Olivia you are one lucky girl a turtle, fishes, a dog and was it a parrot? WOW! Sounds like a little ark. Make sure you have your parents take good care of them with you and have fun!
Ben
Thanks Ben, I've been sharing your post on my FB page, there's been a good response and I'm hoping that lots of peole thinking about getting a shelled warrior reads it first. Smiles
Spring Pace, a 60 pounder! ...and probably still growing I imagine! Sounds like a fun handful to be sure. Your story is the reason I have decided to wait until I own property before buying another large tortoise, they need some serious space. At a Chicago pet store I used to go to they originally had their sulcattas in a tiny enclosure that they eventually widened to over 100 square feet or so...
Cheers
Ben
Thank you Leann! I suspected as much, but I guess I wanted to mention that they carry a reptile version of herpes (some of them as you say) to point out that they are capable of carrying such diseases. Glad though, once again to hear that TURTLES/TORTOISES DO NOT CARRY A VERSION OF HERPES THAT IS TRANSMITTABLE TO HUMANS!
Thanks for setting the record straight miss.
Ben
I hear you loud and clear Taylor though there is one issue that you left unaddressed in regards to recommending a species, that being their wild population. The Horsfields or Russian tortoise is "vulnerable" in it's rating as it has felt major habitat loss, whereas the red eared slider has actually gained habitat by invading all over the world. I hear you loud and clear about the "ten gallon torture tank" and your point about the "bioload" that needs to be regulated is some great advice. If you can show me another species that is easy to take care of, and whose wild population isn't in danger of being exterminated I would get rid of the RES reference, but as it stands I want to point people to a population that isn't in danger of extinction. I will gladly add your suggestion though ( I have many people suggesting edits to this article on a regular basis, along with a fair amount of insults about my mistakes) your critique though, was from the heart and deserves to be honored.
Warm regards,
Ben
Gotta keep those hands washed in between working with different species and I also learned recently that if you have chickens to care for, look after them AFTER taking care of the big torts outside, you don't want to track chicken poop into the tort pens because of the salmonella.
Yeah Ben he grew fast, I actually had to move because of him, our first yard got too small with no chance for expansion. Now he has about 900 sq. ft to roam around in and he uses every inch of it. Smiles
I was amazed the first time I saw a 12" RES, I had no idea they got so large. Until that point, I'd only apparently seen juveniles or sub adults thinking they were full grown! I'm currently raising a sulcata, I met him when he was the size of a silver dollar, he came to live with me a couple years later the size of the palm of my hand and still I didn't realize how much bigger he would get, it just didn't register at the time. Now I appreciate that fact and stress always to anyone who visits and says "I want one" that my guy is only about 1/2 the size he is eventually going to be and if you don't have the space now for a 150-200 lb tort now and extra monies for fencing, vet bills and feed plus the fact that they can be very destructive just by walking around or doing tortoise things like digging and rearranging the yard plants, this is not the pet to have no matter how cool he looks. Raising a smaller species is only marginally easier, most are escape artists and tenacious about it. All reptiles need lots of sunshine and water and even if they don't eat every day out in the wild because of weather conditions and food source doesn't mean they don't want to eat. They have learned to adapt to their environs to survive another season, it's quite remarkable. I believe once we've taken on the responsibilities of caring and raising for a reptile, it's our duty to be the best care takers we can possibly be by going beyond what the books say. Even in hibernation, tortoises and turtles need to be supervised, temperatures checked and adjusted and above all making sure our friends are healthy enough to do so in the first place. Many do not survive hibernation in captivity. Even though Galileo, my sulcata is not a hibernator, he does slow down considerably during the winter months here in Southern California. My main job during that period is making sure he has plenty of warmth,UV and humidity during his inactivity. Signs should be posted over the cages of all reptiles. "These animals will live almost 100 years in captivity. Be prepared to put it in your will!"
Siu Wai Stroshane , sounds like your Russian has been on quite an adventure! Good on your for finding a good home for the little tank. As I mentioned above in another response, Russian tortoise are quickly losing ground in their home range, much like the box turtle here in the U.S., so the more help they can receive to stay alive the better.
Warm regards,
Ben
Melissa, I've been giving your predicament a lot of thought. To weigh in my opinion (and it might be a good idea to ask a local DNR person too) but I would say, if you have only had the boxie for a few days, I think it would still be alright to release him. The wilder area the better. My uncle lives in a very residential part of Maryland and he says he sees one every few years which amazes me in that I don't know how they avoid the lawnmowers though I'm glad they do. You might consider googling your area to see if there is a nature reserve nearby.
Best of luck, and thanks for thinking of the tortoises' welfare.
Ben
bjoyner81 , sounds like Shelby has found a wonderful owner. From what you've described I think you will do well with your RES. They are one of the toughest turtles around. As a point, I would incline you to change the water frequently, weather you filter it (hopefully at least a basic carbon filter) or not. It will be good for both you and your new reptilian friend.
Mazel tov
Ben
I'd suggest you partially change the water 2x a week to help keep the water cleaner, maintain the balance and give the filter a fighting chance. Smiles
Springpace! Thank you for the many comments, advice, and props on your Facebook page. I really do appreciate you lending your personal experience. I like when you said,
"Raising a smaller species is only marginally easier, most are escape artists and tenacious about it."
I have encountered several escape artists, and heard many stories of people who have lost the care, or ability to tend to a very large tortoise such as the sulcatta.
Thanks again, sounds like California is a good place for tortoises!
Ben
Experienced keepers make it look easy, availability makes it hard to resist getting a cutie pie as small as a quarter. It's no wonder there are so many torts and turts in jeopardy. My main goal is to reach as many people as possible who admire our shelled friends thinking it's a breeze because they are so sturdy looking and can withstand so much. Truth be told, they can but there is no good reason for it because they do suffer the consequences as the years pile up and like with any animal the longer they are sick, the longer it takes to get them back to health and our shelled warriors insides are no different than ours. Their hearts, lungs and other organs are just as fragile as ours and should be protected from the uninformed and enthusiatic newbies. Smiles
Sage advice bjoyner thanks for the follow up! I agree! In nature most bodies of water get circulated more quickly than a small bowl in someones apartment!
Cheers!
Ben
Have to clarify, I messed up, the bjoyner comment you just responded to is actually from me Ben, I got confused when I was responding to bjoyners comment. Doesn't matter though, cleaning the tank partially is good practice and much safer for the animal than trying to get the balances right with a full clean, it also preserves the life of the filter. Smiles
Amen to preserving the filter! For that matter, using vinegar would probably be the best way to (organically speaking) not put toxins in the torts or turts (to use your words ;o) environment.
Thanks for the follow up Spring Pace you're always welcome here on my hubpages articles.
Best,
Ben
Thanks for the welcome Ben, I use vinegar to clean my humidifier filter, it's a great organic cleaner, no lasting residue just gotta get past the initial smell, but that doesn't last long at all thankfully, LOL
I don't pretend to know a lot about reptiles in general, but I think we may have been very lucky with our tortoise after reading this.
He's a minimum of 35 years old - we found him 35 years ago, already fully grown, and as there are no wild tortoises in our country, we decided he was an escapee pet (they were popular at the time). He has always lived outside in the garden, with the local cats and ravens and hawks. During the winter, he hibernates, so we stick him in a box of straw in the shed, then give him a quick bath and baby-oil when he wakes up again.
He's escaped from us a few times, but always ends up back in the back garden when someone brings him home. He;s only been checked by the vets once, and that was 35 years ago when my grandmother decided she wanted to know what gender he was.
I am the first person in the family to look up anything about his requirements, and I'm nineteen. Nothing I discovered has been implemented, because he just wasn't interested. Just pottered back off to his usual box in the corner to sleep.
We're fully expectant every spring that he won't be with us any more when we get him out of the shed, but he's always been alright so far, and usually ravenous!
Gotta love him, which is handy, because there is every chance he could outlive his current owners and end up in my possession!
I love stories such as yours Imas. I have to know what kind of species he is? I am shocked you use baby oil on him! I've heard any sort of oil is bad for a tortoise turtle because they "breathe" out of the their skin and shell. On the other hand it sounds as though your family has been doing well with him all these years so far be it for me to meddle with what works for you.
That is a key element of owning a tortoise, realizing they may live longer than you! Sounds like you are excited to possibly be his new steward, or would he be yours?!
Thanks again for the wonderful anecdote.
Ben
I have a leapard tortise . I don't think he is helthy. When I looked at him he was sleaping like he was dead. I want to know if he is healthy.
Jason my man sounds like you need to take that leopard to the vet. I had a baby leopard, took it to the vet because "he looked like he was sleeping like he was dead" they gave him a vitamin shot and he did real well for another few weeks, but I had him in an enclosure that wasn't warm enough, it was too close to a window, and when they are hatchlings especially (I don't know if yours is) you have to make sure they have the correct humidity. The poor creature died about a month later. When they are very small they need to be kept in a tank. Take him to the vet bud before it's too late, call ahead and make sure you find one that is knowledgeable about reptiles. I lived in Milwaukee at the time I went and if memory serves it cost me 40 or $50.
Take care, you can find lots of information on the web about lethargic tortoises and leopard tortoises too.
Ben
My spirit animal is the snake. But I love all nature. Turtles are my favorite reptile. I catch them, study and feed them for a few days, then release them back in the exact spot where I caught them. I do not catch the ones that are protected. I just observe them in the wild. People that know me are always bringing me injured turtles to care for. Some of them I can save, but sadly, some I can't. I enjoyed reading your hub, because you were honest about your mistakes, and trying to keep others from doing the same. I can see that you love turtles as much as I do. Try this next summer. Instead of trying to keep one for a pet, go out and catch one. Keep it for a couple of days. Learn what they eat, feed them observe them, then release it where you caught it, and catch another one. Before long you will realize that you have started a great hobby, and you will be surprised how much you will learn. That way you will still enjoy having turtles. Make sure that you check your state laws on which turtles are protected, because you can get in a lot of trouble if you have one in your possession.
Hi.
I have brought home a turtle (i think he is not tortoise) about a week ago. I named him pintu. I don’t know which type he belongs to. I have been feeding him puffed rice and fish food pellets as I didn’t get turtle food here now. I have ordered for turtle food and will be getting it soon. I have read your article so late or else I would have changed my idea of keeping turtle as my pet. I noticed your article only when I was trying to find out the right food to feed my turtle. There is a story behind selecting a turtle as my pet, in my childhood I had dogs, fishes etc as my pet which didn’t live long and it made me cry for long when they die. When I was in college one Bhutanese guy told me that turtle live for more than hundred years. But after reading your article I’m scared. Please help me making him live longer, I need him live at least as long as I live because I cannot tolerate any more loss. Please help me by telling about his type, character, habitat and food. I don’t know which type he belongs to/ please help me,
His pictures are in the below address.. I have no knowledge about the hub pages. I came to see about the turtle info only. So please see them and give me your valuable suggestion.
http://purelyloneliness.blogspot.com/
Thank you so much,
Ranjith kumar inbasekaran
Is it good to have Turtile in home, many of them saying. This animal is not good to maintain in home like fishes. So share your suggestions.
Thank you.
Another thing to note: NOT a good starter pet for children. I honestly wish someone had discouraged my mom. I have always loved turtles, so my mom tried to give me one as a pet when i was FOUR. I don't remember any of this, but apparently I went through almost 10 before she decided to stop replacing them.
#1 - Obsessed with Ninja Turtles, I had placed textbooks on it's back
#2 - Bubble Bath
#3 - Backyard in WINTER
#4 - Lost in house
#5 - Cleaned tank with chemicals...
#6 - Forgot to Feed
#7 - Fed too much
#8 - Lost in house AGAIN
#9 - Backyard in Spring (Canada, mostly warm...)
#10 - Fed chocolate
When my mom told me about the turtle fiasco was I was a child, too young to even remember, I was very disturbed. I now live on my own, with my boyfriend, and had been doing a LOT of research about getting a turtle when she told me this. While I know I wouldn't make these mistakes now, and have planned a larger sized aquarium for a red-eared slider, I still feel like I don't deserve another turtle after the cruel fate that had awaited the ones when I was only 4.
So please don't buy them for kids too young to understand what they need, even if you think it would make them happy, wait til they're older, or take them to "visit" some, don't trust them to look after a complicated pet without any knowledge of it.
That's an interesting take PADDYBOY! We don't have too many around here, mostly snappers and painters. If I had a better property for harboring turtles temporarily I'd go for it like you say. I like your experience and thanks for being kind about my mistakes. I'd be interested in the connections of a Snake spirit animal, I'll have to look to see if you have a hub on it.
Ben
Ben
Pintu is a great name i ranjithkumar! Hey man my guess is maybe the Indian flap-shell turtle, Asiatic softshell turtle or the Chinese softshell. These are only guesses, especially if the turtle is from Indo-China area. They are omnivores, and so will eat almost anything, fresh fruits and vegetables are good, along with some meat, they eat live fish from what I hear. If he has three claws on each foot he might be a flap-shell that is especially rare, be extra careful if it is CITES protected. Find out how rare it is, if it should be bred, how it should be kept...do some more research!
Best of luck,
Ben Zoltak
Thanks for your comment Shanmuganathan I think turtles are only good in the home if you have a substantial enclosure for them.
Ben
I feel the need to weigh in in regards to the pelt population vs wild population of Russian tortoises. As Russians are becoming a more popular pet in the US, there are MANY mre captive breeders. Many of them are knowledgable reptile keepers who breed healthy animals, and these tortoises do not make a dent in the wild population! I highly encourage anyone looking to get a Russian tortoise to have a look at russiantortoise.org to get a fairly comprehensible guide to caring for a Russian, indoors or out.
I recently purchased a hatchling Russian from tortoisesupply.com; a well-rooted reptile breeder in Arizona who is doing much to increase the availability of captive bred tortoises on the market. They do ship their animals with priority overnight shipping, but it seems they have had no complaints and I know when Pistachio arrived I gave him a quick soak and he was lively and eating lettuce within 10 minutes.
Russians really can make a great starting tortoise: IF you've done your research and IF you're ready to put in the time, money and dedication it requires. They make rewarding and fascinating companions.
Dangit, obviously I meant "pet populations" not "pelt populations." what a horrifying thought!
I've kept turtles for years, box, RES, and now a Red Footed Tortoise. I had the 3 toed box turtles for 12 years before putting them up for adoption. I must have had the environment right for the Red eared sliders, because they grew at an alarming rate. I could not keep up with aquarium upgrades. The pair ended up with the lady from the pet store. (the RES were given to us by someone unable to care for them)
Now I've got a Red Footed tortoise (aptly named "Red") I hope to have good luck with him as well. He spends the summer outside roaming my fenced in yard (are dogs love him as do our cats). This will be the first winter I have him, and I have built a table for him. It is not as big as it should be, however, we take him out and let him roam the first floor of the house often.
Loved your educational and heartfelt article. Thank you for bearing your soul so we may be more aware! I'm an animal lover and have refused for our family to have a fish tank because when my husband had it before he said it's common that the fish die. That would be too painful for me. We've had dogs, now have 1 after losing our sweet boxer a year and a half ago ( over whom I still grieve at times). Now our 9 year old wants a tortoise also. Yours was the 1st article that really explained things clearly. I'm nervous about how our dog will react (maybe want to eat it), and whether we'll be able to do everything needed. I appreciate you helping the animals with your article! Your love of them shines through.
Also, I think it's alright if you don't answer every post. I imagine it gets super exhausting!
Peace.
Thanks Amoitilia, 555bts, and Emmu for your comments. Yes Amoitilia, it does get exhausting sometimes! But it is good to be loved, whether an animal or a human! Thanks for the additional details and anecdotes everyone.
Ben
i understand we all learn from experience but no offense that just seems a little to many to perish. You are prob a more cautious turtle/ tortoise owner now but i see you point about needing to read more information before you purchase one.
Yeah Sam it's true, it is sad and I actually don't own any tortoise or turtles right now, I wish I did but I don't have adequate space for a good enclosure and proper care. Maybe someday in the future.
Thanks for understanding
Ben
HELP ME PLEASE MY TURTLE HAS SOMETHING AROUND HIS NECK AND I DONT KNOW WHAT IT IS IT LOOKS LIKE WET PAPER PLEASE HELP
GJg, is it debilitating the turtle? Is it hindering it in anyway or is the turtle behaving differently? I could be skin as reptiles shed skin which will eventually fall off. Or it could be a kind of fungus and they may sell something at a pet store or online to remedy that but be careful fungicides can be dangerous. If it is really harming your turtle I'd take him into the vet pronto.
Hope that helps keep a close eye on him.
Ben
GJg, is it a land or water turtle? helps to know what kind of turtle you have. The differences being that it is shedding or it could be dehydrated. Shedding is normal, dehydration is deadly, so tell us mor so we can be more specific in helping you
Not only reading more Sam, but joining a chat group specific to your animal, so much isn't said in books, being able to talk to someone with experience is priceless. i had a guy ask a question on line and I knew he was in trouble so I gave him my phone number. We were on the phone 45 min which is probably equivalent to 4 days worth of e-mails. He was able to clear up lots of his questions with my help, making him feel more confident in caring for the animal. Basics just aren't as obvious with reptiles as with warm blooded animals. Smiles
I currently own 2 tortoises. They are very healthy and vibrant creatures. Not to mention playful. I love tortoises and all but i do understand. You must really commit urself 2 this.
Thanks Spring Pace great advice for GJg!
Thanks theturtlelovagal, funny how only turtle/tortoise people know about the playful side of a chelonian.
Ranji from 2 weeks ago, your turtle is a mud or musk turtle species. I'd start looking closely at lots of pictures in that category so you can get better information feeding himand find out exactly what you are caring for. Rice crispies is NOT food for a turtle, the pellets are OK, but he does need live food, water to swim in, a beach to rest on and UV lighting to keep him healthy. Good luck to you, smiles
I have a sulcata, some think he's a lonely guy because he's an only child. You would be surprised as to how he keeps himself occupied. Moving chairs, kicking balls, trying to get to the other side of the fence are just a few things he does on a daily basis. He loves to pick out choice grasses and peer through the window to see if maybe I'll be coming out soon to either give him a treat or spray him w/ the hose. You should see how he stretches his head out and trucks over to me when he hears the door open. My guy isn't lonely or sad, he has what he needs at all times and that's plenty for a reptile. When I see him doing tortoise things, I know he is healthy, for a reptile it's as simple as that. Smiles
hea ben i like the hub, i have recently been give 2 yellow belly and 1 red eared terrapin, they are 9 weeeks old and i was gave them because the owner didnt want them animore .
they have a basking area and light in their tank, they also have a heater and water filter. i feed them dayly but im not 100% sure if im looking after them right could u please give me some advice?
Thanks for this post. I was remembering my sweet childhood in Paraguay when my father brought three little turtles their workers found in the woods. Two Red-footed and one I don't know the kind. They were small, in fact one of them was so small that if you squeezed her you could feel the softness in the shell. I was 12 years old, my parents, my two brothers and I didn't know anything about taking care of turtles. We found out they loved to get near the sprinklers so each morning we took them outside to my super big garden and they enjoyed the walks. One of them disappeared in the winter :( we never knew what happened to Carusso :( the small one was eaten by a cat and Manuela the other Red-foot died 4 years later with something stuck in her throat. Right now I was considering getting one for my nephew but I wanted to do some research first and I agree with your post. Thank you, it made me remember that they belong to their habitat and it is really difficult to give them a happy life in our homes. Let's stick to adopting homeless dogs and cats and leave the other animals where they belong.
Funny, I don't really think most of these are reasons not to own one, just things to look out for. My mother somehow managed to keep a box turtle alive for many years feeding him nothing but lettuce, and his "enclosure" was a laundry basket. If that is what one sees as "proper care" then they shouldn't own a turtle or tortoise. But if you make the commitment, do your homework, and are vigilant, they really aren't hard pets to keep. My redfoot is a happy, healthy, feisty little bugger. He is my first tortoise, so it's been a little bit of trial and error, but they are a hardy species. People simply need to do their research BEFORE they get one as a pet, so they don't find themselves in over their heads. However, I would say the same about owning ANY animal, even a cat or dog if you've never had one before.
No! I mean thank you? Haha...my son 5 wants a turtle for Christmas. I explained we must fully research first. He loves animals. We have 9 fish, and a red bellied frog now. I am worried about the salmonella issue. No good. I have a perfect spot and a very large tank in mind for two turtles...painted turtles. I so don't want to not get this present for him but now I am wondering if it is a good thing. Hurry, talk me back into getting them for him :-). Thanks for the information...
Thanks everyone for the great comments. I have again received some negative feedback from someone who makes money from breeding chelonians who said much of my advice was bad, but they failed to specify what they meant. Again, I am no turtle expert, and I don't apologize for making people who make money off of turtles angry. If anyone knows of husbandry mistakes that I offer anywhere on here please let me know and I will edit immediately.
Warm regards for turtles and tortoise alike,
Ben Zoltak
Let the breeders complain, I think, no I know that even 1 more breeder who gives out a pertinent care sheet to a specific species a lot more lives would not just be lived but thrive. Turnover is not the answer to success people!
turtles is nature of friend
Hallelujah Spring Pace and Pankaj! Here's to a lack of sanctimony in animal husbandry and an inherent love of nature and her forgiveness!
Ben
Telling the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth also applies to the laws of nature too. Smiles
wow that was great writing and I sure agree having a tortise is a lot of work
ive owned leopard tortoise for ten years and havnt had a problem with them
those 10 reasons arent good enough to say to people not to buy them, thoses reasons are for people who didnt do the research. Bad advice good talking point tho
I wanted a pet turtle for my 14 birthday(4 years ago),i asked my mom again about a month ago,she said yes.Now,that I found this page,I know I have to tell my mom one thing,NO!
Thanks Dave, Cor and Spring Pace for your comments. Again, if there's "bad advice" on here, let me know specifically of that which you speak, or we can't learn how to be better stewards to Chelonians.
Glad to see this here. Your personal experience and knowledge added a lot to this article. It's sad that the pet trade removes these amazing creatures from their habitats. I hope people read this and give a lot of thought before acquiring a turtle -- or any pet.
Rosa Praleya! What an eloquent name, your parents must be bright. Don't be afraid to buy a turtle or tortoise! By all means, just make sure you have all that your specific species needs. Don't just buy one and throw it in a ten gallon torture tank! (Well, a few tiny hatchlings could spend some months in there, easier to control the humidity and temperature) but soon they will need more space. Be sure to give them a good diet, I've heard great things about Mazuri reptile pellets but chelonians thrive on different fresh foods specific again to the species type, though the pellets may give a much needed consistency in vitamins. There's much to know, research, build a great enclosure then find a breeder who doesn't sell wild caught specimens if it is legal in your area.
Best of luck,
Ben
I agree Hike Guy, and truly there are so many turtles and tortoises now in captivity that they don't need to be taken out of the wild for breeding programs.
Thank you for your comment.
Ben
HI
I HAVE A TWO YR OLD STAR TORTS AND A ONE YEAR OLD TORTS.THEY LIVED COZILY SOME TIME BACK IN THE SAME BOX. BUT NOW MY OLDER ONE WHO IS A MALE WUD ALWAYS END UP BITING OFF THE LEG OR THE MOUTH PART OF THE YOUNGER ONE FEMALE.IT REALLY WORRIES ME PLS ADVICE WHT TO DO THOUGH NOW I KEEP BOTH OF THEM SEPARTE..BUT I STILL FEEL THATS NOT THE SOLUTION..NEED HELP
Whoa ! great insight...my parents never believed in owning a pet and always discouraged me. I'm glad I could find your hub discouraging me to buy pets...I would help them as I always had to protect from my evil neighbours but not buy them as pet...they need their air and their way to live long in life...not in captivity. Thanks Ben...you write well and It easily shows that you've read a good amount as well
SHEETAL SHETTY, you are very lucky to have a star tortoise, one of the most beautiful and more rare tortoises of the world, I wish that someday I might be able to get a pair myself. Positively they should be separated. The "box" you describe, I hope it's large. At a minimum I suspect you need at least 6 square feet per tortoise, plus a good UV light and heat light for them, plus good substrate. Do your research! There is a plethora of information here on the web about Star Tortoises, start reading!
Best,
Ben
Hi Sheetal, tortoises are solitary creatures, sometimes they do well together, most times in captivity they do not, if they are breeders, you will really need a lot, a lot, and I stress a lot of room for them during the process and still there may be some bloodshed, otherwise separation for the sake of the preservation of the torts is a must. Bites are nasty and cause serious infections. Usually infections take time to develop and in torts by that time a resp infection can develop and those are very hard to cure. It's better for the torts to be separated no matter what you might think, it's the nature of the reptile.
Thank you Amay for your kind compliment and for sharing your life experience with turtles and tortoises.
Ben
Great addition and support Spring Pace, thanks for your expertise. I've had several (and lost more than one) chelonian to infection.
Ben
I just bought a Russian tortoise. I really love him and he is a really cool animal. I've been wanting him for a really long time and finally got him all set up. Now I've been really stressed to take care of him. I want him to be happy and I'm afraid I'm stressing myself in the process. Should I return him? I feel like I don't want to give him back but all the stress is taking hold of me.
Des, you are so lucky! Did you know that Russian tortoises are the coldest latitude tortoise in the world? You have got yourself a real gem. Now, think of the chelonian first. If you returned him, it would only stress the TORTOISE out. It sounds like you've taken care, make sure your Russian has a good heat gradient from cool warm to warm, make sure you've researched their diet, make sure he's got some good substrate and enough room and don't be afraid to keep on reading for more. You obviously got the reptile because you were interested, why not make researching Russians part of the hobby? Learning is fun.
Best of luck, I'm so jealous, someday I may get one of those awesome tortoises.
Ben
Hey Des, part of being a new parent is stress,slowly you'll get the hang of it and luckily if you aren't doing everything wrong your tortoise will survive until you feel your stride. If you really like him, the relationship between you two will be remarkable. Smiles
This is so sad because I wanted a small tortoise as my own pet!
Thanks again Spring Pace for always being on the ball, and for offering your positive suggestions.
Also to Wottsy, there are many reputable breeders (and a few who are only in it for the money) you can find a great small tortoise and keep it, again be sure it gets all of the care it requires, and make sure do solid research on your specific species.
Best of luck,
Ben
Hey Ben, I've been known to go to shows and "enlighten" breeders as to how they should "showcase" their animals. Many will use habitats that are inappropriate to the specific animals because of ease of travel or because they are trying to sell supplies, which is OK as long as they don't give the buyer the wrong impression. Visual impact is a mighty and strong method to making a sale, but if the worng message is being sent and the buyer is unaware, not knowing what right questions to ask, the animal is doomed. I got my sulcata in an aquarium because that is how the original owner got him and passed that info onto me. What spurred me into changing was the fact that I didn't even know originally what species he was and the original owner had forgotten and wasn't told that the tortoise would eventually be up to 200 pounds. Imagine my surprise when I went on line looking through hundreds of pics to find someone who looked like my tortoise. My whole world changed! So any new potential owner out there, if there is one question to ask, ask if the habitat you see your tortoise or turtle in is the right one, get specifics, not all chelonia are raised in the same manner, they have specific needs that bottom line cannot be changed. Smiles
I'm 11 and I have a African spurred tortise. (It looks exactly like the one in the picture) and he/she is doing just fine. It lives in a 5 gallon aquarium and we put a normal light over the aquarium to keep him warm in the winter. I have had him for about 4 months and he is great. He reacts to people touch and he is about 5 months old! How would you know how he got the
Salmonella Or whatever?
I have a red eared slider it's about 10 to 14 years old it was my cousins and it was the size of a half dollar when she got it. I had it for about 7 years now. It got sick once but I took it to the vet and it's been healthy since. Lately it has gotten pretty big I would say about as big. I love having a turtle even though it hisses at me and tries to bite but they are fascinating
Gaby Rox, I have heard that the Salmonella scare with turtles is much exaggerated, but it is a topic I haven't researched enough to give you good advice on. I have heard a great many conflicting opinions on the subject though, so if you wanted to know the truth, I would look for multiple sources of information.
Hope that helps, always good to wash your hands frequently anyway to be safe.
Ben
Hi Gaby, is it a sulcata that you have? The kind that grows to over 200 lbs? If that is the kind you have, then you have to make ome major changes in its habitat right away. Salmonella is transferred through feces, with all reptiles, you must make sure to wash your hands after handling your tortoise every time. Very important to keep his habitat as clean as possible on a daily basis. Your tort also needs UV, a regular lamp will not provide that.Torts have the same sleep schedule as you and I do, so a heat lamp at night is necessary when you shut off the bright light. Merry Christmas
I am concerned about my sister who has become ill, also her husband has become ill, and now their daughter is becoming ill.
My sister's son left to live his own life and left two terrapins in a huge aquairum for his mum and dad to look after.
We notice one day tiny little filies flying around in the aquarium, hovering above the water, and some where dead floating on the water.
The aquarium was washed out and fresh water put in. some days later those flies where back, but also noticed tiny like worms on the bottom of the tank. These tiny worms would swim to the surface and back down to the bottom. Also noticed one tiny red spider like insect on the bottom of the tank.
Stones which the terrapins rest on were removed and the tank washed out again.
But these things are back in the tank?
Is this the reason my family are sick?
The terrapins don't seem unhealthy
Any advise would be very welcome
candleglow, I would seriously consider getting a new home for the terrapins, or maybe buying a strong water filter. I suspect that the worms and flies are attracted to the terrapins fecal matter. Flies are definitely something you don't want to have around sick people as they are vectors for disease. They themselves might not carry anything, but they walk over rotten meat and feces then walk on people food and other things thereby transferring disease.
A call to a vet may be a good answer here.
Best of luck,
Ben
Hello. Wonderfully written article. I was looking to purchase a turtle for myself and my daughter(4yo) and I had heard they carried dieases so I started researching. I came across your article. Wow. Amazing. You gave me an insight into what to expect. I thank you for that. The turtle I am looking to purchase is a Sulcatta. My friend purchased on from a big chain Petstore and was told hers will grow big. They never once explained anything about heating lights or anything. Just told her to buy special woodchips, pellets, a 10 gallon enclosed tank and that was all. I am now shocked as I know nothing except they are so beautiful. I have all the materials I listed and more. I have no idea what the turtle will need. Does it need water in the tank, etc.!
My main issue is with the turtle and my daughter. I have said since the beginning that she will NOT be allowed to handle the turtle. I am scared of it giving her any diseases. I know they are warning people about having them as pets. I know my daughter would live just to stare at the tank and for that I am happy because I would want her to appreciate and enjoy their beauty! Can the turtle have any bacteria/disease that can be distributed through the air? I apologize if I sound idiotic but please understand I am new to this. I want my daughter to be safe as well as the little turtle. That is my main concern. She will not handle it so I am happy about not chancing it and her not catching anything. But the quality in the air is what I fear. If she can catch anything that way.
Again, thank you for an amazing article. Best wishes from me down here in Puerto Rico. I eagerly await your reply. :)
Que pasa turtle lover in PR?! I am so sorry that I cannot not help you more in this arena. Any pet (or family member for that matter) could potentially be a vector for disease to other members of your family. I say this as all of our family has retained the flu this week. As for turtles carrying airborne diseases, I think you are in the clear. To be safe, making sure the turtles enclosure or tank is exceptionally maintained would be a benefit. Truthfully, while supervised it would be okay for your daughter to handle the turtle so long as she washed her hands afterwards. Many people have children and chelonian pets side by side successfully.
Best wishes, I am jealous of your weather!
Ben
Hello Turtle Lover, there are no airborn diseases that a sulcata can give you or your family, the main culprit would be the sulcata poop because even small they do poop a lot and walk through it, it's the trait of a sulcata. Use the fish tank for FISH, not your sulcata, it's one of the worst environs you can put him in, gets way to hot w/ had air circulation, a big cause for concern for upper resp disease, misshapen shells and the body growing faster than the shell. You will need and open tort table like a book case, they need a lot of room. Take out the shelves, waterproof the inside, the best substrate to use in my experience is coconut fiber, it's hypoalergenic and lasts 6months to a year w/ daily cleaning. This is called the substrate and it needs to be kept pretty damp, check by grabbing a handful and squeezing, no water should drip out but it should hold together. This substrate will help tremendously in keeping the humidity levels a sulcata needs 24/7 all year long. Always keep fresh water available, don't put in any rocks or climbables as sulcata love to climb and young ones tip onto their backs easily, that is cause for concern because they struggle moving all over the table and usually end up under the heat lamp...potential disaster, overheating causes all sorts of problems. I have Galileo the sulcata. I got him in 2005, he was the size of the palm of my hand and weighed just under a pound, today he is 18" long, over 12" wide and weighs almost 70 lbs, so they grow fast and continuously. Your inside accommodations will only last at most 3 years, then you have to start thinking about an outside space for him. Daytime inside temps and humidity should be a constant 80-90 degrees w/ 80-90% humidity and night time temps should not go below 70 degrees, so you will need a UV bulb and heat lamp for the day, at night an infrared heat lamp or CHE (ceramic heat emmiter) will do the job. Make sure all heat lamps are well secured and 12-16" above the carapace of the tortoise and the tortoise table is long enough that the tort can move away from the heat if he needs to. On to the food, it would be in the best interest of the tortoise to start getting him on a fiber rich diet, pellets are full of fillers and of really no long sustaining nutritional value. My suggestion would be to use any kind of hay "dust" (never alfalfa though)and sprinkle it over the long greens like kale, dandelion, collard, turnip. Vegies have too much sugar that the kidneys cannot process completely. The only fruits a sulcata can have sparingly (that does not mean once a week, but once a month) is the tuna from the paddle cactus, a little pumpkin, a little watermelon and only when in season because that is when they would eat it in the wild. Sulcata mainly eat weeds and grasses and perfetly happy grazing it w/ only supplementing w/ the long greens 3 times a week, even the greens are rich w/ protein which is another hard to digest food for the tortoise (baby spring greens sold in bags are OK because of the variety in them). I mention long greens because the digestive system of a sulcata is very slow and the long greens help to keep his digetive system running smoothly. They will try to eat rocks and dirt, and a small amount of each helps the digestive system too, limit the amount of rocks for the obvious reason that the rocks can impact him causing problems. Just because sulcata will eat ANYTHING in it's path, doesn't mean it's good for him, no dog or cat food (a favorite for stealing out of the animals bowl). In the wild nature takes care of what a sulcata will eat each season, in captivity, the choices are 1000000000 fold and 99% of those choices are not good for a sulcata. Keep all mammals away from your sulcata, they are predators and the tort WILL be the prey animal. Sulcata will eat their own poop and the mammals, their poop is OK to eat, but not the mammals, these animals are usually treated w/ wormers or flea and tick meds that are lethal to sulcata, it'll take months for the symptoms to appear, like not wanting to eat, sleeping all the time, a general about face of what a healthy sulcata should be acting, by that time it's almost too late to heal and if one does manage to do so, it may take many months to get better and the tort is at risk of dying that whole time. Just because the shells are very hard, they do break and crack, so falling is dangerous from almost any height over 2 feet. I hope I covered the most important things you REALLY NEED TO KNOW. I get notices when there is activity on this site, if you have any more questions, or if I can be of further help, just holler. My main goal is for the health of the tort, not so much for the owner except to give the easiest and best advice that won't fail the tort as I possibley can. Smiles
Shazam! That's how Spring Pace does it, well said, and thanks again for your well thought out added input my friend.
Ben
I like!! Shazam! Smiles, Spring
I have a Critter page on FB that I share MY comments ONLY on from your hubpage. I always do my best writing when I'm responding to others, thanks for giving me that opportunity Ben, you started something good here, smiles
Thanks Spring Pace I'll check it out when I get the chance.
Cheers!
nice one ben...i hope people pay attention to this article of yours and take some good care of these lovely ,cute and innocent creatures
and a few days back a friend gave me an indian flapshell turtle and he is living in a pond which is situated outside in my garden...the problem is that the water in which he lives is very cold these days n i'm worried..will he be comfortable out there?? n will he be okay with those turtle pellets??n is there anything else that i should know about him?
i also have a red eared slider whose very close to my heart and he just completed an year in my house...he is very healthy n he is soo soo adorable...
A lady at work offered her two red eared turtles because they weren't eating anymore... I figured they just needed attention so I gladly accepted them. However, just by doing a little research I understood why they were not eating and it made me sad. They weren't in the proper proper environment, they were barely able to move in their tank, the water was cold, she even said they had not eaten since september! I went to the pet store and bought most of what they would need and now they love swimming in their new tank! I even had to buy a cream for their shell because it was shedding. After spending $150 unexpectedly, I discovered turtles need a specific environment to grow and diest their food. Reason #... for not buying a turtle or turtoise: if it's to amuse your 6 year old kid.
hey tushar, your Indian flap shell is omniverous, so the pellets will suffice in being a back up during the lean times.If you have a healthy ecosystem in your pond full of live food your turtle should be fine. Usually they estivate (type of hibernation) until hard times pass, they will burrow into the mud to keep themselves safe from harm, so don't be surprised if yours isn't swimming around for long periods of time during the hard cold. I got all this from Wikipedia, but more research should be done by you for better specifics, smiles
I would like to say that over 20 years ago I bought an Elongated Tortoise . I knew nothing at the time and never had a tortoise befor but, have had turtles. I did my research by going to the local zoo for info. The put me on the right track and stopped at the book store on the way home. Three day's later and several book's were in my posseion. I edcated myself and didn't cut corners to take care of the animal. I'm happy to say that 23 years latter the tortoise is thriving well and has grown. I don't cut conners and shop for a variety of food. I plant a very large garden every year to feed my several tortoise and turttle's that I share my house with. The Elongated shared an appartment with me for several years before I bought a house so that I could have more reptiles. So don/t tell me that a Tortoise can't thrive in captivity. Do your research before you purchase , if not leave the animals alone. Too many end up in shelter's every year of neglect from stupid people or cheap one's who think an animal that can outlive a human will thrive . SO DON'T BUY ONE!
thank you so much spring pace...i appreciate your help..and you're right.. i barely see him swimning around...
your welcome Tushar, come spring time, he'll be sunning on deck and making you smile
Hey! I've had many turtles in the past when I was younger and just recently thought about getting another couple but then I was struck with a feeling of worry that when I get them I will not want to constantly be taking care of them even though I know it wouldn't take hours ( since I have not had them in a while ), just wondering if you or anyone else has ever felt like this before getting a new turtle?
i also wanted to know the correct diet for my red eared slider... i feed him twice a day with pellets which he finishes within no time ...still he keeps on asking for more..i dont want him to starve and i dont want him to overeat either because i've heard its harmful..he is one and a half years old
great article by the way!:) I have 2 yellow bellied sliders - one boy, one girl.. the boy (Raphael) which i just recently purchased is only about a year and a half old and is very crabby! always hissing, so I feel he's been mistreated in the past. I'll do my best to make him happy though like my girl (Donatello) who's about 4 years old! she is BEAUTIFUL! I absolute adore her! I took her off a friend as she had a small tank with no filter and no basking area!! she was very timid and her shell looked infected, now she has a bigger tank with all the facilities a terrapin would ask for:) and I am pleased to say she is a happy turtle, most research I've came across says that terrapins don't like to be handled but Donatello LOVES attention, unlike Raphael which is a shame cause I'd live to see him 'come out his shell' ha! No pun intended :) but anyway thanks for the great article, really enjoyed!
I have a Russian Tortoise and have been allowing her to sleep with me as she enjoys the warmth- now after reading your article Im confused.... she has a habitat but likes to roam the house and I live in a very tropical area - the temp is the same all year round except it gets hotter in the summer- what should I do and I have had her for about 3 months now and just love her to death I take her out 20 minutes every other day and feed her once a day as well as give her a soak every other day...Help now Im freaking out --- her movements are regular and she has clear eyes and has been checked by my vet to have no medical aliments but now Im worried
please respond
Thanks again Spring Pace for your constant vigilance regarding our chelonian friends.
Kjarvi31 ... I think many people feel the way you do! Good for you realizing this, time to do some real soul searching before adopting a turtle/tortoise. Some need more care than others...
tushar ... from what I understand RES's are some of the most voracious (really hungry) turtles out there, so they will eat and eat and eat ... but this doesn't mean he should still be fed to the point where he gets overweight. Also, don't be afraid to look up fresh fruits and vegis for your friend.
Alexooo ...I love your turtle names, just like the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, love it. Also, if he's hissing, at least you know he's healthy!
Bobbiemy !!! Well, as cute as your Russian is I still wouldn't sleep with him, not hygienic! In your tropical environment the Russian could possibly run into humidity related problems, but the Russian's range is very broad and I would guess that he will be fine. An interesting conundrum but not one you should worry over I believe.
Ben
If anyone wants a turtle I recomend a red eared slider from turtleshack.com these people know what they are doing. And Ben #11 should be theyer not too expencive to buy, but when your into them as much as I am they are a little pricey. Like for instance my turtle was $21 from my local pet shop and over a short period of time turned into hundreds so just be able to "shell" out extra money if need be to keep your little guy happy and healthy
Always glad to be of service Ben. My life has taken a huge unforeseen left turn this past month. I was diagnosed w/ Stage 3c cervical cancer due to the Human Pavllova virus I got probably over 20 years ago. I'm only mentioning this here because there is now a vaccine for young girls against HPV that will make cervical cancer one of the cancers that can be totally eradicated from the long list of cancers. Girls, cervical cancer is painful, if you feel ANYTHING out of the ordinary like an unexplained belly ache, please go see your GYN ASAP. Catching it early is key, mine has metastized so making mine more complicated and the treatment will be aggressive. Boyfriends, dads, husbands please be aware of your girls changes and when they say they don't feel good for too many days in a row (I'd say a week) make an appt for your loved one. All cancers affect everyone close to you, be proactive in the most kind and loving way you know how to. I know that you will have to approve this before it is posted Ben, I sure hope you do because if I can help a few women then it's time well spent reading this. ((((hugs)))) cuz I don't know how many more I have left in my lifetime and smiles because they are healing in themselves, Spring
DT Well put and thank you for the heads up on your reputable breeder. RES's are the mules of the turtle trade it seems, they are beautiful reptiles and delightfully well rounded turtles.
Ben
Ah Spring, may the Great Spirit hold you tight in her arms. The coincidence of your post is poignant as my daughter lost her mother to cervical cancer a little over ten years ago. She had precancerous cells then tried to harvest the last of her eggs for her fiance via hormones and surgical procedure which only exacerbated the problem. My daughter created one of the first facebook pages on the subject:
http://www.facebook.com/groups/50328134982/
Anyway, good vibes and spiritual blessings to you. Please do not be afraid to seek out alternative cancer treatment, from one turtle island resident to another, please look into Vitamin C treatment as a possibility. A %50 cure rate is possible through Gerson therapy, but it is highly controversial. Recall though that radiation and chemotherapy are both known to cause cancer.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r7_yjjK4hNk
Be careful where you tread here my friend, you have walked into a path where health and profit commingle detrimentally.
All my love,
Ben Zoltak
Thanks my friend, hard to know which treatment is the best, so I am comingling the chemo & radiation w/ eastern practices for health and stability while I go throuh the treatment program. I think any choice I make has it's risks, but no riskier than what I have already and less risky than if I did nothing at all. I have a great support base and am diligently NOT reading up on the subject because there are so many varying opinions and I'm already dizzy from what little I do know. My support groups have been holding me close and upright, and has been the most effective so far. Life is at best a crap shoot and I will accept whatever outcome it brings but not before I'm finished, I don't give up, nor do I give in, I choose my fights, I don't let those get chosen for me to the best of my ability. ((((hugs))))), Spring
Get well soon spring pace...
my best wishes are with you....live long and prosper.
thanks for your help ben...smiles
I hear you Spring and I understand most of all I hope you get well!
Ben
Thank you Ben & Tushar. I like that "live long & prosper" Tushar, I embrace your hope for me Ben, it's gems like this that get me through my day and every day is different so I hear the same things said differently every day. Some days it's hard to care when I'm in a boatload of pain, but the next day is usually better and that's the day I appreciate life more and all the people in it. It's a hard realization knowing that pain can be so destructive to ones own mind ( I thought I ws stronger than to succumb). Now I understand it better and direct my focus away from the darkness. (((hugs))))
DUDE DONT PUT TURTLES DOWN
Stay strong Spring! Sending you good vibes and prayers lady friend, (((hugs))) back at you!
TYTY: we love turtles and tortoises here, we're just trying to make sure people know what they're doing before they go out and buy one so that they are better taken care of is all.
Best,
Ben
nicomp Level 6 Commenter 2 years ago
Fascinating. Thanks for writing. I had turtles from the pet store when I was a child. I don't recall a very long life span.