Is a Turtle or Tortoise the Right Pet For You?

Before Buying any pet you should think about what you are getting into. A turtle or tortoise is just like anything else in life it does take care, and most of all "time." Before buying a turtle or tortoise you should consider everything. You should ask your self a few questions.

What are you expecting from a pet?

If you are wanting a pet that you can train and teach tricks, then a turtle or tortoise is not for you. If you are wanting a pet that protects you and takes no care, then a turtle or tortoise is not for you. If you are wanting a pet you can cuddle and snuggle, then a turtle tortoise is not for you.

Do you like something different that not everyone has?

Then a turtle or tortoise would be good choice.

Do you have the money?

As with any pet you get it takes money. You have the initial purchase price. Depending on your choice of turtle or tortoise it could get very expensive. Then you must think of housing, food and health. Just as with any pet in life you have to think of the vet bills. If you have a sick turtle or tortoise this could get very expensive.

Do you have the time?

Turtles and tortoises take time from everyones busy schedules. You must care for them. You can not feed them lettuce every once in awhile and expect them to be healthy. You have to give them fressh food and water daily. You have to clean their cage. Water turtles take more time cleaning the cage. You have to look them over frequently to make sure you show no signs of illiness or disease.

Do you have the space?

You can not put a turtle in a 10 gallon tank and expect them to be happy and healthy. You also can not put a box turtle or tortoise in a box and expect them to be happy and healthy. Cages and homes take space. Always remember the larger the turtle or tortoise is the more space they take.

Young children can not properly care for a dog or cat, let alone a reptile. So please DO NOT buy a turtle or tortoise for a child, unless YOU plan to care for it. Small children do not keep their hands clean enough to have a reptile. They also normally do not have the responsibilty to care for it on a full time basis. So I personally do not recommend a turtle or tortoise for a small child.

Have you talked to your family about a pet?

Getting a new turtle or tortoise is just like getting anything large for your home. You need to know everyone's input on it. What happens if you become ill, will your family members take care of your pet? Remember turtles and tortoises live a very long time, sometimes longer than you, do you have someone who will watch over your pet?

Last but not least are you ready to make a comittment to your new turtle or tortoise

All pets take time, money, space and energy. Are you ready to give up your precious time to care for pet. If the answer is yes then you would be ready for a turtle or tortoise. If you answered no, then my suggestion is to get something a bit easier to care for.