Has anyone got Tortoises as pets?

Question

Are they good as pets? I'm talking about the ones you keep in your garden...

What equipment etc. do you need to buy?

Thankyouu =)

Answer 1

I do have tortoises as pets. You will need to research individual species because they are all very different. Most tortoises live pretty long some in the 100s. They can also get very large so make sure you have a large area for it or you get a species that stays small. If it is going to have access to your garden you will need to make sure that everything in the garden is edible. Something that is ok for one tortoise can be deadly for another, so agian it will depend on the species. If it gets cold where you live you will need to be able to either bring it inside when its cold or build a house for it that you can heat (usually with heating lamps). Along with the garden plants most likely you will also need to supplement its diet with tortoise food to make sure it gets all its nutrients. Before getting one I would also locate a vet that has experience with tortoises. If you live near a vet school usually they can take care of it or give you the name of a vet who can. Also some tortoises dig, if you get a species that digs you will need to bury your fence a couple of feet so it doesn't dig under it.

I hope this helps. I really enjoy having my tortoise.

Answer 2

Yes I have tortoises. Most are rescues because the person buying them could no longer keep them because a lot of them were given the wrong info when bought.

Such as the sulcatas .... they get well over 100 pounds and live 100 years. They are told they can live in a 10 gal aquarium.

Only water turtles belong in an aquarium.

Most turtles are grazer and would eat your garden. So you may have to plant a garden for them.

They also need a heated room in the winter time. (unless you have a hibernating species)

So do a lot of research before buying one.

Also check into "turtle rescues"

Answer 3

I keep many tortoises in my yard.  They are much healthier and happier in the yard than inside in small enclosures.  If you keep them outside - there is very little equipment you need.  Just do some research on the specific kind of tortoise you are thinking about getting.  They all have different needs and care.  Good luck to you and your future tort!  :)