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There is more to turtle care than a tank, water and pebbles. Like cats and dogs, turtles are also in need of proper care and attention, although they can probably do without the occasional cuddle.
Dr Gillian Hung, veterinarian at Happy Pets says pet owners should know exactly the type of turtle species they want because this affects the diet and husbandry requirements.
"The word turtle is just a general term for chelonians, which includes terrapins - or fresh-water chelonians - and tortoises, land-dwelling chelonians," she says.
"Therefore, pet owners should be aware of which species of turtle they have [or want to get] because their requirements differ."
Turtles are popular pets in Hong Kong and are commonly sold in pet shops in the city.
Veterinarian Paul Essey, from Hong Kong Vet Services adds that it is essential for potential owners to identify the species. "Different species should not be housed together as some may be more susceptible to disease than others," he warns.
While the aquatic species require a tank deep enough for swimming, semi-aquatics need only enough water to submerge. At the same time, the semi-aquatic species require space for walking, burrowing and soaking in a moist bedding area, whereas the aquatic species only need a small exposed spot next to their swimming area for drying, the vet says.
Clean water is essential for turtles. Hung says poor water quality can cause ear abscesses or shell problems.
To ensure turtles stay healthy, Essey recommends changing the water each week or every two weeks, depending on the size and amount of waste that is produced. Also, a heavy-duty canister filter would help to maintain water quality.
According to Essey, a water heater must be installed for aquatic species and a steady temperature should be maintained at all times. The recommended temperature ranges from 26 to 32 degrees Celsius. Also, a light that mimics sunlight should be provided with a 12-hour day and night timer.
The semi-aquatic species are omnivores and their diets can be varied to include animal and plant sources. Freshwater aquatic species, such as red-eared sliders, tend to be carnivorous when they are juveniles and more omnivorous as they mature.
Essey says a good quality diet is fundamental to a turtle's well-being and should include a solid balance of protein, minerals and vitamins.
While researching species, owners should consider how big a turtle can grow. Hung says some impulsive buyers are often unaware that turtles are able to grow from two inches to the size of a dinner plate and their husbandry requirements become more demanding as they get bigger.
Hung discourages buying turtles from illegal traders. "This is a grave and rampant problem that is rarely discussed in the mainstream media," Hung says, adding that vast numbers of exotic chelonians have dwindled in their native habitats. She says they often suffer malnutrition and metabolic bone diseases because of poor diet and general husbandry. Reptiles are also carriers of salmonella, therefore washing hands thoroughly after handling any reptile is highly recommended, especially for children, the elderly and people with lower natural resistance to infection.
Hung advises owners that keeping a pet is a life-long commitment and the last thing anyone wants is for people to release turtles into the wild.
"As most of the turtles sold in Hong Kong are non-native, some of the invasive species could threaten the native species. For example, the native species, the golden coin turtle, has been pushed to the edge of extinction due to such an invasion," she says.
The lifespan of turtles also differs between species.
"A common misconception is that all chelonians will live to more than 100 years old," Hung says.
She says the red-eared sliders can live more than 20 years if given proper care, whereas non-swimming chelonians, such as leopard tortoise, can live more than 80 years.
So, if you have done your research and are ready to commit, your pet chelonian can be a great friend for many years to come. Katrina Yau
For editorial inquiries: specialistpublications@scmp.com


Proper turtle care needs knowledge and dedication

Red-eared sliders are among the most popular pet turtle species in Hong Kong. Photos: Thinkstock

Turtles require a great amount of care and attention.

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