Other Turtle Discussion :: Help, Not Sure What To Do.

[BabyNemo]

Hey guys,
So I recently started school again, and in my Physics class my teacher has two RES turtles in a 20 gallon high tank. They have no basking area, less than an inch of water, no light,no heater, and no filter.
One is about 3 inches diameter and the other is at least 4.
I need advice. I would love to ask him if I could take them offhis hands (He didn't feed them for a month and a half over the summer)
He's put them on their heads so their heads couldn't come out of their shell, he let a student hold one today, she dropped it in the trash can.
The tank bottom is filled with rotting feces, and urine. I'm pretty sure that what they're inisn't water, but urine and feces rotted.
Monday I'm going in during my study hall time to clean his tank, and I'm wondering how I should talk to him about taking them off his hands.
How do I talk to him without sounding rude and snobby?
Thank you.
Sorry if this is in the wrong place.

[Kansasslider]

Wow that's a tough one. It might just be ignorance on his part. Just be polite and let him know you are interested in taking them because your well educated about the care of turtles. Question is are you ready for 2 more turtles? The part I don't like is you said he puts them on their heads. That's disturbing to me. You might consider talking to school administration.

[BabyNemo]

I am definitely ready for two more turtles. I love my Nemo, and I have extra tanks. I want to upgrade to a 125 gallon tank very soon anyways. If anything, I may have a fifty five gallon and 125 gallon running in my room.
How do I even begin the conversation?

[Kansasslider]

Sorry I was editing my post as you can see.

[BabyNemo]

I really don't want to be 'that kid'. Who goes to administration. And I'm pretty sure my school wouldn't care.

[Kansasslider]

Any one else want to chime in here? Steve?

[Kansasslider]

OK I will give it a shot. Just tell him you would like to have his turtles and see what his response is. Go from there!

[Kansasslider]

The problem with people is everyone is scared to say something. Say something and tell your friends to say something. That's the only way things will change.

[BabyNemo]

Thanks for the advice. I'm still nervous about it but hopefully some more people will post.
I'm going to quarantine them in my 36 gallon tank, if I get them, because they are both very very sick.

I will post updates

[BabyNemo]

Anyone?

[devilduck]

Kansas is right, speak up for what you believe in.
Better yet have your parents call and friends parents call administration to support you.
Don't just complain, but offer suggestions. If you have to print out care sheets on this site.
I bet you something will be done in short order.

[Kansasslider]

I agree with Devil Duck. Time to act not sit and do nothing. I don't know what your situation is with your parents but have you talked to them ? And if so are they supportive? I would tell my child to follow their heart. And do what's right. I know its not easy but follow your heart and all should be well. Talk to people about it. . You'll see there are nice people in this world. I don't have a simple answer for you because there isn't one. Sorry.

[BabyNemo]

My parents, well my mom, is the one who told me I should ask about taking them for him.
I set up a tank today, 36 gallon bow front.
Tomorrow I'm getting a bigger filter, and some kind of fish to speed up the cycling process. What fish should I get?
I'll be going to Walmart.
And should I get some snails?

[Kansasslider]

No snails and no fish from Walmart. I would leave it empty for now.

[ljapa]

Check out fishless aquarium cycling. I used it on my 55 gallon when I started.

http://www.aquariumadvice.com/forums/f1 ... 48283.html