Pet Turtle Care 101: What to Know Before You Adopt

Turtles can make great pets for the right person or family. They’re low-key, fascinating to observe, and so cute. But don’t let their calm demeanor and slow speed fool you. They require a surprising amount of care and commitment. 

Unfortunately, many people adopt turtles without fully understanding their needs. When reality sets in, some of these pets end up being surrendered to rescues or sanctuaries, while others are irresponsibly released into the wild, where they rarely survive. According to the Southern California Turtle & Tortoise Rescue, turtles are the most commonly abandoned pet in the U.S.

That’s why informed adoption is so important. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know before bringing a turtle home, so you can decide if they’re the right pet for you, and if so, how to care for them responsibly.

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Special considerations when adopting a turtle

Are you really ready to adopt a turtle? Before you welcome one of these shelled companions into your home, it’s important to understand that their needs are quite different from those of furry pets. Here are some key factors to consider.

Lifespan

Turtles aren’t short-term pets. Depending on the species, a pet turtle’s life expectancy can be anywhere from 15 to more than 150 years (no, that’s not a typo). 

If you’re thinking of adopting a turtle, be prepared to make a decades-long commitment, and consider what might happen to your turtle if your living situation changes or if you can no longer care for them.

If you ever find yourself unable to care for your turtle, releasing them into the wild is not an option. Doing so is dangerous for the turtle and native wildlife. Responsible rehoming is a must.

Habitat requirements

Turtles and tortoises require very particular environments that mimic their natural habitats, and the setup depends on the species. According to Southern California Turtle & Tortoise Rescue, aquatic turtles tend to do better in outdoor ponds than in indoor aquariums.

A proper turtle pond should have:

• Easy access in and out of the water

• A sunny basking area

• A dirt or sand patch for burrowing and egg-laying 

• Secure fencing — such as plexiglass barriers that are at least 18 inches tall, which are a simple, effective way to keep them safely contained

If an outdoor pond isn’t possible (due to space or cold weather), a heated indoor tank can work, as long as it’s properly set up. A healthy indoor habitat should include:

• Clean water for swimming and feeding

• A basking area 

• Warm and cool zones, maintained with heat lamps and submersible heaters (monitored by multiple thermometers)

• UVB lighting 

You’ll need to spot-clean the tank daily, perform partial water changes weekly, and do a full clean every two to three weeks. As your turtle grows, you’ll also need to upgrade the tank size to meet their changing needs.

Land turtles, like box turtles and tortoises, thrive in secure outdoor enclosures that offer plenty of room to explore, spots for digging and basking, shelter from the elements, temperature regulation, humidity (via misters), and protection from predators. They can be housed indoors when they're small, but outdoor setups are ideal long-term.

Species-specific needs

One-size-fits-all advice doesn’t apply when it comes to turtles. Understanding the difference between land tortoises and aquatic turtles (and researching the specific species you plan to adopt) is essential, says Jeff Dobbs, founder of Turtle and Tortoise Rescue of Arroyo Grande. Care requirements can vary widely, and what works for one species in terms of diet or habitat may be harmful to another. 

It’s also important to research the social needs of different species. “Two sulcata adult males can kill each other in 15 minutes, while other species are very mellow and get along well,” Dobbs says. 

Brumation 

Dobbs explains that turtle guardians should understand brumation — a period of dormancy similar to hibernation, triggered by colder temperatures. Indoor turtles typically won’t brumate, because their water and basking temperatures stay consistent year-round. Outdoor turtles, however, will naturally slow down, stop eating, and bury themselves to conserve energy and stay protected during the winter months. 

During this time, it’s important not to mistake your turtle for dead. Brumating turtles can appear very still and unresponsive, but they’re simply in a deep state of rest.

Some people also choose to put their turtles in a refrigerator for a few months during the winter months (yes, really), which induces brumation. However, this method should only be done under the guidance of a reptile veterinarian.

Diet

Turtles may be herbivores, omnivores, or carnivores, depending on their species and life stages. Depending on their needs, they may eat some combo of commercial turtle pellets, leafy greens, vegetables, fruits, insects, freeze-dried shrimp, and live food (such as feeder fish, snails, and insects). Some turtles may also need calcium supplementation and/or a multivitamin. 

Poor nutrition is one of the most common causes of illness in pet turtles, so be prepared to learn about and provide a well-balanced, species-appropriate diet.

Veterinary care

You can’t take a turtle to a regular dog-and-cat veterinarian. Turtles require specialized care from a veterinarian experienced in reptile care. Before you adopt, check that there’s an experienced reptile vet nearby.

Legal regulations 

Some turtle species are illegal to own in certain states due to environmental or health risks, or overcollection in the wild. Others may require permits or have specific care regulations.

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What are the potential downsides of having a turtle?

Although turtles can be fascinating and peaceful pets, they’re not the right fit for everyone. Many people adopt turtles, thinking they’re easy to care for, only to discover otherwise. While they’re not necessarily difficult pets, there are a few important considerations to be aware of before bringing one home.

• Long-term commitment: Because turtles can live for decades, you need to plan for their long-term care. This includes a pet parent’s life changes, such as moving, going to college, or growing their family. 

• Unique care needs: If you want to adopt a turtle, you have to learn the ins and outs of turtle care. This isn’t a pet you can just wing it with — doing your homework is a must.

• Health risks: Turtles are known carriers of Salmonella, a type of bacteria that can cause serious illness in humans, especially in young children, older adults, or people with weakened immune systems. Safe handling and regular cleaning can significantly reduce the risk, but it’s never zero. 

• Not a cuddly pet: If you’re looking for a pet to snuggle or play fetch with, a turtle isn’t the right choice. Most turtles don’t enjoy being handled frequently, and too much interaction can actually stress them out. They’re more of a “watch and enjoy from a distance” type of pet.

• Hard to rehome: Sadly, many turtles are surrendered to shelters or abandoned in the wild once people realize how much work they require, or if their circumstances change. But rehoming a turtle isn’t always easy, and sanctuaries and rescues for turtles often operate at full capacity.

How much does a turtle cost to care for?

Initial costs

The biggest expense comes at the beginning. A quality turtle setup can cost anywhere from $200 to more than $1,000, depending on the species and if you have a land or water turtle. Skimping on setup can lead to health problems down the line, so this is an area where cutting corners can actually cost more in the long run.

Ongoing costs 

Once your habitat is up and running, you’ll still have ongoing expenses for things such as food, cleaning supplies, substrate, and electricity to power heat lamps and filters. Fortunately, these costs are generally manageable, typically ranging from $20 to $50 per month, depending on your turtle’s species.

Veterinary costs 

Annual wellness checks might cost $50 to $100, while illness or injury could result in emergency bills of several hundred dollars or more.

Unexpected costs

If your turtle grows larger than expected, you may need to upgrade their enclosure. If equipment breaks down or your turtle develops a health issue, costs can spike. Travel and boarding can also be tricky (and expensive), since few pet sitters are trained in reptile care.

How much does a turtle cost to adopt?

If you adopt a turtle from a rescue or shelter, adoption fees typically range from $25 to $100. Fees may be higher for rarer species, or they may be waived entirely in some cases. Adoption fees usually help cover the cost of a turtle’s care, and some rescues may include basic supplies or a starter tank.

Where can I adopt a turtle?

If you’re ready to welcome a turtle into your home, it’s best to avoid buying from pet stores or unverified online sellers, like those on Craigslist. These sources may profit off wild-caught turtles (often collected illegally) or animals bred in poor conditions.

Instead, choose adoption, which not only gives a turtle a second chance at life but also helps reduce the demand for the capture and sale of wild turtles and irresponsible breeding. 

So, where can you find a turtle to adopt? You have a couple of options. 

• Reptile rescues and shelters: Many animal shelters and reptile-specific rescues care for turtles in need of new homes. These organizations often rehabilitate turtles and provide valuable care information to help you get started. A quick search for “reptile rescue near me” is a great first step.

• Online pet adoption platforms: Sites such as Adopt a Pet make it easy to search for adoptable turtles in your area. You’ll find listings from shelters, rescue organizations, and individuals looking to responsibly rehome their turtles.

Commonly asked questions

Do turtles get attached to their owners?

Turtles can recognize their guardians and may respond to your voice, presence, or feeding routine. Although they aren’t affectionate like dogs or cats, some might show signs of attachment, such as following you around.

What are the chances of getting Salmonella from a turtle?

Turtles of all sizes can carry Salmonella, but those with shells under four inches are especially likely to carry it. Since most turtles carry the bacteria without showing symptoms, it’s safest to assume any turtle can transmit it. Always wash your hands after handling a turtle. 

Are turtles good pets for children?

Turtles aren’t ideal for young children due to the risk of Salmonella and because of their specific care needs. They may be good pets for older, responsible children, as long as they have adult supervision to help them manage daily care and cleaning.

Can turtles live with other turtles?

Some turtles can cohabitate, but it depends on species, size, sex, and personality. Always do your research before placing turtles together. 

What types of pet turtles are there?

There are many turtle species kept as pets. Popular choices include red-eared sliders, box turtles, mud turtles, and painted turtles. Each type has specific habitat, diet, and temperature requirements, so always research the species before adopting.

What if I decide a turtle isn’t right for me? 

There is a whole world of possible pets out there to consider: cats, dogs, snakes, bunnies, chinchillas, chickens, hamsters, rats, birds, and guinea pigs, just to name a few. Take a look at our guides for each animal to see which one might be a good fit for you. 

Resources 

“Fridge Hibernation Best Thing for Tortoises, Says Shifnal Vet.” BBC, 11 Nov. 2021, www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-shropshire-59250154.

“List of Veterinarians Who Treat Turtles and Tortoises in California.” California Turtle & Tortoise Club, www.tortoise.org/general/vetlist.html.

‌Jones, Lauren. “What Do Pet Turtles Eat?” PetMD, www.petmd.com/reptile/nutrition/what-do-turtles-eat.

‌Jones, Lauren. “How Long Do Turtles and Tortoises Live?” PetMD, www.petmd.com/reptile/how-long-do-turtles-and-tortoises-live.

“Turtle Care Sheet.” Southern California Turtle Rescue, socalturtlerescue.com/turtle-care-sheet.