Are pet turtles sanitary?
Turtles can look healthy and clean but still carry germs. These germs can contaminate tank water and other areas. Fact: There is good news! You can prevent Salmonella infections from turtles if you know the facts.
Can you get sick from a pet turtle?
Regardless of where turtles are purchased or their size, turtles can carry Salmonella germs that can make people sick. Pet stores should provide information about Salmonella to customers and pet owners should always follow steps to stay healthy around their pet.
Are turtles really dirty?
Turtles are dirty. Every time you touch your pet turtle you have to scrub your hands afterwards. Because they are dirty creatures, they dirty their living space quickly. Cleaning turtle tanks and keeping a clean filter takes a lot of work!
Are there any false notions about pet turtles?
False Notion 1: A turtle is a turtle; they all have the same basic needs. It is true that all species of aquatic turtles require UV-B radiation and need to live in an aquatic or semi-aquatic habitat, but diet, tank size, accessories, and growth rate differ between turtle species.
Do you call a tortoise a turtle or a turtle?
If tortoises are turtles, why not just call all turtlelike creatures “turtle”? Because if the animal you’re referring to is a tortoise, some wise guy is going to correct you every time. The most important thing to remember about tortoises is that they are exclusively land creatures.
Is it true that all turtles need UV-B radiation?
It is true that all species of aquatic turtles require UV-B radiation and need to live in an aquatic or semi-aquatic habitat, but diet, tank size, accessories, and growth rate differ between turtle species.
Is it illegal to keep a turtle as a pet?
False Notion 2: A wild turtle walking along on dry land is up for grabs. In some states, it is against the law to capture a wild adult turtle and keep it as a pet, but that’s not my issue here. The fact is, it’s wrong to capture a grown turtle on land because it is 99% likely to be a female trying to find a place to lay her eggs.
Can a pet turtle live in the wild?
Turtles are happier in their natural homes in the wild. Turtles and other reptiles sold in pet shops are either wild-caught (that is, stolen from their natural habitats) or bred in cramped, filthy breeding mills. Many do not survive the journey to the pet store, and those who do often arrive in poor health.
Why are there so many turtles in pet stores?
Turtles are happier in their natural homes in the wild. Turtles and other reptiles sold in pet shops are either wild-caught (that is, stolen from their natural habitats) or bred in cramped, filthy breeding mills. Many do not survive the journey to the pet store, and those who do often arrive in poor health. 2.
How did people get sick from pet turtles?
At least 25 children younger than five years were among those who got sick. The investigations showed that shortly before many of the people became ill, they were exposed to a small turtle by touching, feeding, cleaning the habitat, or changing the water in the tank.
Is it possible for a cat to kill a turtle?
This depends on who you ask. For many, cats may be curious but never go as far as killing and eating a pet turtle. However, a curious or bored cat can harm a turtle enough to kill it or permanently injure it. Cats can’t attack large turtles but can do serious damage to turtles smaller than they are.
What are the chances of getting Salmonella from a turtle?
Even if you have a Salmonella positive turtle, which you most likely do, the risk of catching it is minimal if you take good care of your turtle and practice basic hygiene. For more information about Salmonella and reptiles, visit the Association of Reptile and Amphibian Veterinarians.
