Other Turtle Discussion :: What turtle should I buy??? please help!

[little2small]

I need to know what turtle is best to buy. I have been doing some research on Red Ear Slider turtles, but I learned some of them carry diseases. I was also researching about Mud Turtles. So please tell me what turtle is a good pet?

[sonyj]

All reptiles or animals for that matter could carry disease. Yes RES (and other turtles) can have salmonella but so do many common pets such as dogs or cats. All you have to worry about is good hygiene when keeping your turtle and keeping his tank and environment clean. If you wash your hands thoroughly after handling your turtle or any of his stuff then you shouldn't have to worry about getting sick. If you get your turtle from a reputable pet store or breeder then disease shouldn't be a big concern. Never take an animal in from the wild.

[ellman605]

box turtles are fun, i found 17 in our backyard at one time, kept them all for a whole summer, not one of them died.

[knite]

Box turtles are also the easier to take care of than sliders, in my opinion. But aquatic turtles are more exotic. Red ear sliders are huuge when they are fully mature. Every turtle has something unique and requires different care than others- and that means expense. A turtle that is within your budget would be the 'best' turtle for you.

[marisa]

You can get some good info on choosing a turtle here: http://www.austinsturtlepage.com/Articl ... turtle.htm

Be sure you have the committment, time and funds to give any turtle a good home. They require more care than most people think, but they make great pets.

[little2small]

thank you all!