There a lot of things to consider before deciding to own an exotic pet. Some states in North America prohibits the owning of exotic pets, so be aware of local laws. Find out if there are veterinary doctors near your area that have knowledge in exotic pet care. Make sure that you have enough space both indoors and outdoors to accommodate your new pet. If you have decided to own a pet tortoise study and learn its various diet needs and habitat requirements.
There are different species of tortoises available in the exotic pet market. Choose the pet that best suits your capabilities as a pet owner as well as the physical attributes of your local surroundings and climate. Red footed tortoises thrive well in Southern Florida or in places that have humid and tropical climates. Sulcata and Leopard species prefer drier climates such as in Arizona or Nevada. If you’re a beginner, settle for smaller species of tortoises such as the Russian tortoise which grows to about 4-8 inches or a 6-8 inches Hermann tortoise.
Most pet tortoise can be fed with leafy greens, vegetables, grasses, weeds and in moderate quantities, fruits and small insects. They can be fed with dandelion greens, hay, Bermuda grass, timothy, lettuce, kale, spinach, cabbages or broccoli. Do extensive research on the specific types of food your pet can eat since feeding them in large quantities can damage their health. If they will be staying indoors for most of the year, supplement their diet with calcium and vitamin D3.
It is best to provide outdoor enclosure for your exotic pet. Provide them with a large space for grazing, burrowing and wallowing. Some types of tortoises likes to burrow underground so sink the pen’s fence to the ground. Others are good climbers and needs escape proof shelters. A muddy wallow or shallow pan of water would do for wallowing and soaking. They may drown in deep water and may be attacked by large pet dogs so keep them away from these dangers. If indoors, provide them with enough space to live. You may use soil, sand, cypress bark or paper as substrate. Investing on UVA/UVB lights is also recommended in order to mimic outdoor temperatures.
