Thinking of getting a pet turtle? Here are a few things to consider

Turtles are one of the oldest kinds of reptiles on this planet. This also makes them a one-in-a-kind type of pet. Less work than dogs and cats but more definitely more interactive than a fish, a turtle can make for a fun pet. While they may seem like low-maintenance pets, there is a lot to consider. 

If you are someone who is planning to get a turtle as a pet, here are a few things to know. 

Turtles need a lot of special care. They continue to live for years and grow throughout their lifetime. Meaning, they require more space to grow. If small turtles are mistreated or mishandled, it can lead to premature death. 

Health risks

Before you buy a small turtle for your family, you should know that they can transfer salmonella to humans, which can further lead to serious illness. The CDC does not recommend small turtles because of the risk of disease transmission. Children, especially, are high on risk. However, there is a variety of turtles to consider from. The best turtle varieties for beginners are male painted turtles. 

Lifespan 

Many types of turtles can live up to 20 years or longer. They also continue to grow throughout their lifespan. However, there will be changes in their diet. So, before you make a choice, do your research thoroughly. 

Turtle care

Turtle care can be extremely complicated. To make things easy for yourself, consider joining a local turtle and tortoise society. These groups can be helpful in figuring out the care needs and demands of your pet turtle. 

When caring, make sure you always wash your hands. Don’t wash their habitat pieces in your kitchen or bathroom. Prefer washing these pieces outside or in a designated bin or tub. This will help in preventing the spread of salmonella