General Care Discussion :: playtime!!

[ladybug02124]

How often do you take your lil guys out to play?? I took them out only a few times and this resulted in me chasing Ike , they are good climbers. I think I want to buy a little kiddie pool for them to play in.

They seem pretty happy in theoir tank, but I want them to be as happy as can be.

thanks

[TheComputerGremlin]

How big are your "lil guys"? We recommend that you don't handle them until they are at least 4" or larger, as the smaller ones becomes stressed easily and are more prone to release Salmonella. They also become ill easier.

As for how often you handle them, each turtle's personality varies, but my turtle is a "look but don't touch" turtle because she doesn't want to be handled. She likes being the ruler of her mansion tank. Some people handle theirs, I'd say a few times a week, but you'll find that your turtle is much happier being left alone. Something they may enjoy more after they are 4" or larger is being allowed to roam in your yard for awhile, but keep a close eye on them, they can run fast!

[SpotsMama]

They do love to be out in the sun. It's good for them too. If you get them a kiddie pool this summer take some precautions - if the water is shallow it can heat up to a dangerous level under a hot summer sun. Provide some shade for them and a place to bask and a place to hide. A hiding place can be as simple as a wash cloth that they can go under. Also, a dog or hawk can get them if you're not careful. Finally, the kiddie pools that you blow up can sping leaks and decompress, allowing your turtle to escape. Bottom line, keep a close eye on them at all times.

For a number of years Spot struggled with a shell problem and I picked him up every day to check his shell and skin. He got quite used to me, to the point that he swims right into my hand when I reach for him. Also, people who feed their turtles in separate containers handle them daily and I think they get used to it. I wouldn't say turtles like being handled though. Spot swims up to me and seems to like getting out of his tank from time to time, but he'll also bite me given half a chance.

[draggonkitten]

my two turtles both get fed out of the tank
and eventho i only got them recently they come to which ever side of the tank i am at when i talk to them wether its feeding time or not.

[ladybug02124]

thanks eveyone, they are pretty big, prob approx 8"

when i take them out, they hate being handled, they squirm, and kind of make me nervous , lol