Other Turtle Discussion :: Splitting Up Turtles

[blackbunny31]

I have had 3 red ear sliders for the past 2 years. One I bought and the two other were given to me because their owners couldn't take care of them. They are all doing well but are getting to big for their current habitat. The local pet store said they could take them. Do you think it will be ok if the turtles split up? Thanks.

[grey goose]

As long as it's a reputable store that knows how to take care of them til they are sold, go ahead. RES are solitary and do very well alone...

[yertle_the_girl_turtle]

Aww! Are you sure you want to give them up? You could just buy a bigger tank...

[blackbunny31]

Its the local Petco store. I have seen RES come and go there. I was thinking about buying one of those 150 gallon Rubbermaid Stock tanks but they are so big and my wife and I live in a small apartment. We just dont have room right now.

[xsavingsaturdayx]

Dont give them to a store, there is a chance that your turtles are going to land in the hands of an annoying 8 year old whos parents think a turtle is a "good begginer pet" for kids.

Instead, www.turtlehomes.org

[DavidY]

Um, there are a lot of kids on this forum who are starting out in the pet hobby with their turtles. I think many of them have shown some real responsibility by coming to this forum to learn more about their new pets. I agree that a pet store is not going to care who buys their animals, but be careful about generalizing the young ones. I think most of us started our love for animals at that wonderful age.

[xsavingsaturdayx]

My point was, the pet store isnt going to care who the turtle goes home to..therefore, it can land in the hands of someone who isnt going to care for them properly. Most parents that get their kids turtles, often think it is silly to spend so much on a turtle. I know of a couple of my little brothers friends who have turtles kept in tiny little bowls with a plastic palm tree in the middle. I have tried informing their parents on what they need, they never listen. But dont get me wrong, there are some realy young kids who take awesome care of their turtles, as well as realy understanding parents.

[DavidY]

Yea, I see what you mean. It is a shame that so many of these big pet stores will sell anything to anyone to make a few more bucks. I like the smaller private pet stores where the owner and employees take the time to educate their customers. Unfortunately, they're losing their business to the Petco's and Walmart's.

[blackbunny31]

I am talking to the Mrs today. I will keep you updated on our choice.