General Care Discussion :: Taking them outside to bask

[Soze82]

I would like to take my two turtles outside to bask in a kiddie pool. I was wondering and this may be a stupid question but I would like to put some water in it but do I have to put reptisafe in it to clean the water of chlorine like I do in their tank?

[Bascomb]

So-82 -- Make sure that it is good and warm outside when you do it. I would not put them in water as the rays do not get throught the water or glass. Also, don't leave them alone as birds, cats and dogs will get too curious. b.

[TheComputerGremlin]

Yes, you need to declorinate the water still, but this can be done if you fill the pool and leave it sit for a few hours. As mentioned, watch them like a hawk, it only takes a second. If you have water, you'll need to provide a basking area, but this can be a log or rock. Also, watch the water temps and provide a shady area so they don't get too warm.

[2wicky]

interesting. i'm thinking about using the kiddie pool idea too. i didnt even think about putting reptisafe in it.. so my question is: How much water should i add... enough for him to swim around in or enough to cover his shell?

[TheComputerGremlin]

Depends on what you want him to get out of the experience. If you add enough water for swimming and it's escape-proof and it has a shady area and basking area, it's practically a pond! But if I were to take my turtle out, that'd be what I'd do. If you just want him to get some sun, a shallow smaller container will do fine, just watch him to make sure he doesn't get too hot.

[SpotsMama]

Sure, put water in. The deeper the water, and the larger the pool, the more stable the temperature will be - which is good. Overheating is always a big issue, so monitor carefully. I don't bother with dechlorination outside - just let the water sit, like someone said above, and the chlorine will evaporate on it's own in about a day.

[imderanged]

A question related to the kiddie pools... I was thinking of doing the same thing for Sylar (getting a kiddie pool) but I wasn't sure if he was too young? I think of "hachlings" as being more delicate and sensitve to all temp changes and what not...he is 2.25 inches right now...is it safe to put him in a kiddie pool, or should I wait until next summer?

[marisa]

His shell length is over two inches? I've put hatchlings in kiddie pools that were smaller than that. Just be sure nothing can get at him, he can't escape and he can't overheat (part of the pool should be shaded).

If you can't do that, bring a book (or whatever) and sit outside with him for a half hour or so and enjoy the sun with him.

[1981camaroz28]

One reason we use reptisafe is to remove chlorine so it don't burn there eyes