Turtles as Pets

Turtles are reptiles that belong to the order Testudines. Turtles form one of the oldest reptile groups, the earliest members of which date back to 250 million years ago. Today, the group has around 300 species all over the world. Out of this, almost 50 are found in North America. These slow moving creatures have a special attraction for most children. Even grown ups are often fascinated by these cold blooded animals. This has led many people adopting turtles as pets. Although not as common as dogs or cats in most households, turtles as pets are easy to care for. However, for this one should know about the habits and habitat of these animals to be able to provide proper pet care to these marvelous creatures.

Pet Turtles

Small terrestrial and freshwater turtles are most commonly preferred as pets. Of these, the two most popular species are the Red Eared Slider Turtle and the Box Turtle. Temperament of turtles vary according to the species. While the red eared slider and the box turtles are of mild temperament, snapping turtles, as the name suggests, are more aggressive. Hence only experienced handlers should keep snapping turtles as pets.

Aspects to Consider While Keeping Turtles as Pets

Taking care for pet turtles depends upon the species. However, following are certain considerations that need to be kept in mind while having turtles as pets.

Home Sweet Home: The most important aspect of having turtles as pets is to take care of their habitat. Try to create the same conditions as in their natural environment. For this, first identify the species. Box turtles spend most of their time on land, returning to water only to drink. Nevertheless, a land turtle may also enjoy an occasional swim in the water. If the turtle is a large, terrestrial species, one may consider having a turtle enclosure made. This enclosure should have enough dry area for the turtle to bask and a water source large enough for it to occasionally swim. Having some bushes in the area would also allow the turtle to hide into when it feels agitated which will be the case when the turtle is new in your home.

Water turtles, however, would require a large water area. Any aquarium for turtles should have a minimum capacity of 40 gallons. However, this dimension would vary according to the size of the reptile. Employ a water filtration system as the water turtle will eat, sleep and defecate in the water of the aquarium itself. Also, install a submersible heater. Maintain the temperature within the range of 70-75 degrees Fahrenheit. Provide lots of plants. Put rocks in the aquarium that would provide the turtle a place to to rest on.

Give Me My Space! Don't be fooled by the slow moving animals. They may move around with greater agility than you expect. Turtles are active animals and require a lot of space to move around. Chasing live food and having a good swim is good exercise for turtles.

What's on the Menu? Wondering what do turtles eat? Depending upon the species, turtles can be carnivorous, herbivorous, or omnivorous. Turtles should be fed food that is rich in calcium and Vitamin D3. Carnivorous turtles can be fed fish, insects like snails, shrimp, crickets, earthworms and bugs. Herbivores can be provided with carrots, blackberries, and dandelions. A turtle's stomach is about the size of its head. Hence the amount of food given to it should be enough to fill its tummy. The frequency of the feeding depends upon the species.

Before Buying a Pet Turtle

• Consider the size that the turtle may eventually grow to. While some are a few inches big, some may grow into a size that may cause problems for the owner. With larger size comes the requirement of more food, water and space.
• Turtles live long. In case you are thinking of keeping turtles as pets, be prepared to have them as permanent members of the family.
• Check the local laws. Some states prohibit their residents from keeping certain animals as pets.
• Turtles are natural carriers of the Salmonella bacteria that cause a human disease known as salmonellosis. It is for this reason that many states have banned from having turtles as pets. Do not have turtles as pets if you have children below the age of five in your house.
• Turtles are prone to bacterial infections. To ensure your pet's health, take it to a vet for regular checkups. However, all vets do not treat turtles. Find one that treats turtles, or take it to the local zoo where you can surely get medical help for these animals.

Quite a large number of turtles are enlisted as endangered species. Weigh the pros and cons of wild animals as pets carefully before you decide to keep turtles as pets. In case you have a turtle that you realize you can't take care of, just don't let it wander off on its own. It has become dependent on you for food and shelter. Call the local zoo or a turtle rescue group. Ensure that your turtle has a good home even when it is not with you.