General Care Discussion :: I need to surrender my turtle.

[kevol4]

Hi, I have had my red ear{Spike} about 5 years. He is a little more expense than we need right now and I would like to give him to a good home. What suggestions do you have for donating him and where is the best places to call?

[zoologist]

you're better off euthinizing the poor thing. Shelters are generally overrun with so many unwanted RES it's not even funny, and people who rescue them are probably full too. Don't release him in a pond unless you want to upset the ecosystem.

[geekyturtle]

What kind of setup do you have for it now? They are expensive, but if you've had it for five years, it should be mostly full grown and by now you should have enough to keep it going for a while.

Your post on here might get someone, if you provide more details as to what you're offering to give up (tank, supplies, etc.) and pictures (host the pics on imageshack.us - it's free). Also, how far you're willing to drive it, or if they need to pick it up? You can also try some of the other turtle web forums, or craigslist.

And I second zoologist. Don't release it into the wild. They are invasive and take over the areas where other native turtle species live. And it's so used to you feeding them, it might not survive.

[Rubicon]

Call local Middle and High Schools. Ask for Science or Biology teachers. It always seems they have a huge tank hidden in the back somewhere and are always look for a turtle.

[TheComputerGremlin]

I'm confused by the turtle being too expensive. As others have mentioned, beyond the initial cost of setting up a tank, turtles are fairly cheap because all they require is turtle pellets and some veggies and a little cuttlebone. My turtle is so much cheaper than any of my other pets. If you are concerned about needing an upgrade, that can always wait a little longer. If you need a new tank, a plastic rubbermaid tub from Walmart can always be used for awhile.

However, if you are set on rehoming your turtle, one of your best bets is to look for local family/friends/neighbors who are interested in owning a turtle. Turtle adoption groups are very full, though many humane societies will take them. There are always lots of turtles up for adoption on Craigslist, so I don't know how successful that will be.

[TurtleLover_S&B]

You could try this site: www.turtlehomes.com

[marisa]

Have you looked at www.anapsid.org/societies/southcarolina.html ? If nothing else, the organizations listed might be able to give you some further contacts...

[kevol4]

Thank you guys so much for all the great responces. I actually dont have a good reason for giving up Spike. She is a great RES and only costs food and the occasional buld or Tetramint. I gues I was just feeling sorry for her. We got her at a yard sale for $5.00 and she has never been a problem. Is it too late now to bring in another turtle?
Thanks again, you guys are great, Kevin

[megcornell]

Kevin, a second turtle definitely needs serious consideration.
RES are aggressive by nature and adding a turtle to an old turtle's "territory" is a recipe for fighting. You'll likely need two set ups, one for each turtle. If that's something you can afford, feel free to look into adopting a turtle. Otherwise, I'd just focus on giving Spike all the best, and keeping her spoiled

[joeybsmooth]

What part of SC mate ?

[marisa]

Why on earth are you thinking about getting a second turtle when you were initially talking about giving up the one you have???????

[Caphits]

Why on earth are you thinking about getting a second turtle when you were initially talking about giving up the one you have???????

No kidding

I dont understand how you could even think about getting another if you dont think you can do one.

[kevol4]

Im from Greenville, S.C upperstate. Actualy money is not the problem it was more the pity I felt for her being alone in that 50 gallon tank.I thought that if a zoo or school could benefit from her and had others like her I would donate her. But when the first responce I got was uthenize!!!,I realized it was not even an option. I only thought that as with my 3 rescued dogs I could give her a playmate by adding another. Thanks for the input and advice.

[joeybsmooth]

If you still want to give her up I will see if my mom school can take her in.

[TheComputerGremlin]

Yeah, kevol4, turtles don't need playmates. They may look lonely, but in the wild, you'd rarely see them together unless there was a common basking area. And even that will lead to fights. Turtles only get together long enough to do the deed, then the female is off to lay her eggs, and then she abandons them and they have to figure out the world for themselves.

We, as mammals, have trouble understanding this concept. We think all animals need a playmate, but they don't. If money is no issue, might I suggest upgrading her tank? That will give her a lot of enjoyment and will help to satisfy your concern for her. A nice indoor pond with a dry area to play in would be lovely, with lots of random plants both in and out of the water. Or (since you are in SC, though it's a tad cold there lately) a nice outdoor pond where she can enjoy the sun and sights and smells that can be had. Trust me, she'll be happiest being your only girl for her whole life!