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World Turtle Day

World Turtle Day-Help Protect Turtles


May 23, 2018 has been designated World Turtle Day.  Did you know that turtle and tortoise habitats are disappearing around the world?  While turtles can make nice pets, some of them are endangered. Be sure they are coming from a reputable source when purchasing a turtle or tortoise and never keep wild turtles as pets. Consider a shelter or reptile/turtle rescue if you want a turtle or use a reputable breeder.  There are many online resources detailing how to choose a good breeder.

American Tortoise Rescue (ATR) was established to bring recognition to the fact that these ancient creatures, “are rapidly disappearing as a result of smuggling, the exotic food industry, habitat destruction, global warming and the cruel pet trade.”  Biologists express concern that turtles and tortoises could experience drastic decreases in numbers in the next fifty years.  The ATR’s goal is to stop illegal sale and trade of these animals around the world.

What can you do to help protect turtles? 

  • Never buy a turtle or tortoise from a pet shop as it increases demand from the wild.
  • Never remove turtles or tortoises from the wild unless they are sick or injured. 
  • If a tortoise is crossing a busy highway, pick it up and send it in the same direction it was going – if you try to make it go back, it will turn right around again (but be safe yourself!). 
  • Report tiny turtles less than four inches sold at pet stores and street vendors or used as prizes at carnivals and other events. Their sale has been illegal since 1974.

If you own a turtle or plan to buy a turtle, be sure to learn about its proper care and, remember, water turtles can carry and transmit salmonella bacteria.  Wash your hands any time you touch a turtle or its water and turtles do not make good pets in homes or classrooms of children under the age of twelve.  These tiny shelled critters are cute and impulse buys are common.  But some of these tortoises can grow quite large and can be difficult to properly care for and they can live for 25-50 years in captivity requiring a lifetime of commitment.  Keep turtles and tortoises safe by avoiding buying from pet stores or from street vendors frequently seen at beaches, especially hatchling turtles. 

This blog brought to you by the Patton Veterinary Hospital serving Red Lion, York and the surrounding communities.

Source: https://www.worldturtleday.org/

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