Why Turtles Make Good Pets

Turtles and tortoises can make for good pets and can be immense fun to just observe and interact with. The more time you devote researching about the needs of these very affectionate reptiles, the better your time with your turtle will be and better suited type of turtle you will get. Though turtles are not cuddly and can not be hugged for warmth, they are still cute and make great pets.

Prior to getting a turtle as a pet, it is quite important to do all the research pertaining to raising a turtle as a pet. You must, primarily decide what species of turtle you desire to bring home supplemented with information about their food pattern and habitat requirements. Aquatic turtles enjoy a long life span, very often as long as a human and with a properly cared for and regulated lifestyle can live for as much as 20- 50 years.

Of course, all this can be only accomplished by a pet owner who is committed and diligent enough to care for them that long. The more common pet turtle kind is the small terrestrial and fresh water turtle and is very popular with children. Outside pens are an ideal habitat for turtles because nothing can surpass natural sunshine, fresh air and lush green grass to graze on. Turtles are also economic pets because of their low maintenance and lifestyle. Turtles love to eat from the hand, though hands should be washed immediately after feeding.

The best turtle type for children is the Mud or Musk turtle. Turtles serve as a great, exotic and affectionate pet only if the pet and master relationship is perused with commitment, integrity and sincerity. Pet owners should be attentive about their pet's comfort which includes a large tank, special lighting, good filtration and lots and lots of cleaning.

Looking for a reliable source of information and accessories for YOUR Pet Turtle? Click here for a large, balanced selection

For rookie pet parents, the best choice of species would be the red eared sliders who adapt more easily to different climates, are used to a captive environment and respond graciously in the presence of people. They are also less likely to harbour any diseases and parasites. If the tank is regularly cleaned and washed thoroughly, special lighting is also provided with an artificially heated source and if the turtle is regularly exposed to UV light for the manufacture of Vitamin D, then pet turtles will be a thrill to watch grow healthily and will be prove to be the right choice of pets.

Feeding your turtle with only commercial turtle food isn't always enough and should be supplemented with raw meat, fish, worms, insects and aquatic animals as well. Most turtles are omnivores and will eat anything.

While it may all seem like a demanding job, turtles still make for rewarding and wonderfully exotic pets if taken care of by right hands. They are especially good for reptile lovers and people who want an easy to care for pet.

About the Author:

Matt Kepnes has numerous pet turtles and has been writing and caring for turtles for a number of years. His pet turtle JJ is his favourite. You can find more about turtle care at his website. There you'll find all the information you need on turtles, how to clean them, and what to buy for a pet.

Back to General Tortoise Articles Main Page

Click here for the definitive collection of QUALITY Pet Ebooks