How to buy a turtle or a tortoise
To buy a turtle or a tortoise requires you to arm yourself with certain basic facts about these creatures and you should make the decision only when you are aware of what having this pet will entail. You are going to cause a lot of misery to the pet if you buy it for the wrong reason. If you get it on a whim or for quieting a cranky child you will be making a very big mistake. So take this step only after taking into consideration many big and small points that need to be measured before you commit yourself. Here is some information about turtles that might help you with your decision.
A few suggestions
- First of all you must decide that you want to own a pet that needs proper care - food, housing, medicines and veterinary care which could cost you upwards of $ 100 a year. Then again turtles have long lives you will have to take care of the turtle for more than twenty five years, are you prepared to make that kind of commitment.
- In case you buy a turtle from a pet store check it over properly; there is a chance that it may be weakened and stressed and, therefore, vulnerable. It might fall sick because its physical defenses are down.
- Do not succumb to the temptation of buying a turtle from another country. Traders do not always concern themselves with the situation at the other end (yours) and you might find yourself held responsible for illegally importing a turtle from another country.
Do’s
- Join a local or online group interested in the proper care of turtles. Thus, you will remain in contact with individuals knowledgeable about the care required by your unique pet.
Don’ts
- Do not buy the pet if you have the erroneous idea that you are investing in a cheap pet that requires little or no attention. Remember you should expect to spend at least half an hour each day caring for the turtle.