Veterinary Topics

Turtles

Turtles are not easy or low maintenance reptiles. Generally, turtles (including the commonly found red-eared sliders) are messy and long-lived. They can get quite large, so they require large housing and need exposure to ultraviolet light. Also, offering a variety of foods, like commercial pelleted food, fruits, and vegetables, is the best way to feed most turtles. If you can deal with these factors and commit to caring for a turtle over its long life span, a turtle might be a good pet for you. Here, we go over a few of the most common species of turtles to own and care for as pets.

Tortoises

Tortoises

Tortoises can make an interesting pet, although they can present a challenge, due to their size and dietary habits. Their diets vary based on species, but all need quite a…
Red Eared Sliders

Red Eared Sliders

Red eared sliders are semi aquatic turtles that are very commonly kept as pets. Unfortunately, lack of understanding what they require means that many red eared sliders have died from…
Box Turtles

Box Turtles

North American box turtles are mainly terrestrial turtles, although they do spend some time in shallow water (Asian box turtles tend to be a bit more aquatic). Compared to aquatic…