HOW TO CARE FOR A PET TURTLE!

There are a few things you absolutely must handle to ensure your turtle has a good, long life in your home. Some things you should be sure to provide for your turtle are:

• Plenty of room in which to live and move
• Clean water
• Healthy food
• Ample light
• Shaded areas
• Fun "hiding" places

These are a few of the more important ways to care for a pet turtle, but there are many others to consider.

It is important that you provide your turtle with a nice, big tank. 40 gallons is the minimum, as you basically need two living sections: water and land.

In the land area, you will need to set up a heat lamp, but you don't want to heat the whole thing. Just make it an option.

The temperature you keep your tank will vary depending upon the type of turtle you have. Most pet-store turtles are Red-Eared Sliders, but there are many other breeds and it is absolutely imperative that you know what kind of turtle you have.

Generally speaking, you should maintain your turtle's tank at approximately 80 degrees farenheit. At night, reduce this temperature to around 70 degrees. Again, check the ideals for your turtle's particular breed.

Wanna know how to care for a pet turtle in a way that will add years to your turtle's life? Only let your little hero in a half-shell drink purified water. Spring water is fine.

In addition, do not let your turtle swim in water full of chlorine and fluoride. Again, pure water is ideal. If you have a water purifier in your home, that's great. If not, you can simply purchase a few gallons from your local supermarket.

Change your turtle's water often to prevent the formation of harmful bacteria. These simple tips alone can work wonders for the health of your turtle!

Proper turtle care is not to be taken lightly. It is so important that you set your home up to accomodate your little friend. Because of the incredibly long lifespan of a turtle, your investment in upfront time and money will prove to be well worth it in the long run.

If you really want to learn how to take care of a turtle, I advise you to pick up a copy of The Turtle Guide Book, the most complete source of turtle care information available anywhere.

This is an excellent starting point to learn all about your turtle's breed, diet, unique needs, and all those little extras that make being a turtle owner such a special thing.

Please be good to your turtle. The rewards are definitely worth it!