Other Turtle Discussion :: Bug spray near turtle tank?

[Ironchefsakai]

I'm moving across the country this weekend via car (a 13-hour drive, at least, and a night in a hotel room) and would like to transport my RES in a spare 30-gallon tank––I am buying a new tank and setting it up upon my arrival. The issue is that the tank is in my backroom and my landlord sprayed for insects near it (albeit months ago) and placed the insecticide canisters near it, as well.

Do you think that rinsing the tank out a few times should be sufficient to make it safe for my turtle? Or, should I use another tank? The only other tank I have is a 10-gallon, and my turtle is 7 inches, so I'd rather not subject her to such a small tank for a long drive and a stay overnight without proper filtration.

[devilduck]

I wouldn't risk it. You can just use a plastic tub lined with some newspapers or towels. It will be a lot lighter and less dangerous. They should be fine in there for a day.

[Ironchefsakai]

Problem is, I'll have to stay overnight at a hotel. Should I bring a larger receptacle to fill with water overnight, say, the 10-gallon? It'll give her a little time and space to swim and eat, at least...?

[Madly]

Ironchefsakai I have same size turtle as yours (7 inches= 17 cm?) I think,and this is what I would do if I were you. Maybe it is not best advise so don't be so harsh on me.
I would take some other container with me where my RES can swim and eat, and sleep, some towels, let's say 6 pieces or more never enough. It would be good if that hotel room has a bath. Then your turtle can have her food there and also maybe little bit swimming also and you dont have to use that container as a swimming/eating place. But if there are not bath then please, before you put your turtle in there for sleep, dry it off properly. Also little extra exersise in hotel room floor is good let her walk and explore And in the next morning same thing...swimming (least 30 minutes), eating etc.
But again, this is what I would do...

[steve]

Can you just use a cardboard box for transport?

[Kansasslider]

Well its not dead yet. I wouldn't worry about it.You did say months ago? Months? And your just now concerned? Its a turtle if the pesticides didn't kill it will be fine.

[Ironchefsakai]

The tank isn't in use, and hasn't been, or I would indeed not be worried!

Steve, I do have a cardboard box. Would you recommend that before a plastic container?

Also, how big should I go? I know the idea is to restrict movement somewhat, but by how much? I want to be humane.

[Kansasslider]

oops guess I missed the empty part

[Kansasslider]

I would just wash it with soap and water. Glass in non porous . Meaning it won't hold the poison And even if it did most poison doesn't last months. I would say I would use it there is nothing to worry about. Just wash it well.I would not be worried one bit.

[Kansasslider]

Im not Steve but either plastic or cardboard will be fine. Make the container padded like with a towel in the bottom. You dont want too much room depending on the skills of the driver. Just kidding! Big enough for the turtle to turn around comfortably.You will be fine. Road trip!

[steve]

For transport, I think cardboard is a bit better unless the plastic container is lined or this is a short trip.

@ Stacy - they ship turtles in small, dark boxes and container. I think it might help them sleep during the trip, though I have not tried it myself. Some turtles are just restless if they can move around a lot in unfamiliar territory.

[Kansasslider]

yea Steve I have watched unboxing vids on youtube. Some are so restricted in movement its kinda sad. That's why I suggested placing a towel in the container. Maybe even around the sides?

[Ironchefsakai]

I found a pretty soft plastic container and lined it with plenty of towels and ripped-up paper towels. It's got a little bit of space for movement, but not much, and it's tall enough that I can leave the top off to watch her, if need be.

Thanks, all--I leave today.

[Kansasslider]

Sounds like your all set.Have a safe trip.

[Ironchefsakai]

Cheers!