Paw Post · Reptiles
Tortoises and turtles: a friend who may outlive you
Tortoises and turtles are calm and fascinating, but caring for them is harder than it looks — and lasts for decades.
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Land or water?
Tortoises live on land and eat grass, leaves and flowers; they need a safe garden or large enclosure. Turtles need a big tank with a filter and a dry spot to bask and warm up. Both need sunlight or a special UVB lamp to keep their shells and bones healthy.
Wash your hands
Tortoises and turtles can carry salmonella bacteria, which can make people ill. Always wash your hands with soap after touching your pet or its things, and never wash it in the kitchen sink.
Never release them
Red-eared sliders released into lakes compete with native turtles for food and nesting places and harm them. If you can't look after your turtle, never release it — ask an animal charity for help.
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