For many species of turtles, terrapins, and tortoises (collectively known as chelonians), hibernation is a natural and essential part of their life cycle. However, managing hibernation in captivity requires careful planning and knowledge to ensure your pet's health and safety. This detailed guide provides comprehensive information on chelonian hibernation.
Inside this document, you will find crucial details on identifying which species hibernate, preparing your chelonian for this dormant period, choosing the right hibernation environment (controlled indoor vs. outdoor), maintaining appropriate temperatures, monitoring their condition during hibernation, and safely bringing them out of hibernation. This resource is vital for any chelonian owner whose pet requires hibernation.
Ensure a safe and successful hibernation for your chelonian.
Download the comprehensive hibernation guide now!
Terms of Use:
This informational pamphlet is provided as a courtesy to our clients and is intended for educational purposes only. The information contained herein reflects general guidelines and should not be construed as definitive veterinary advice or a substitute for professional consultation with a qualified veterinarian. The specific needs of individual pets may vary, and it is crucial to consult with a veterinarian to ensure that your pet receives care tailored to its unique requirements.
While we endeavour to provide accurate and up-to-date information, veterinary medicine is a rapidly evolving field, and some information may become outdated or be superseded by new research findings. The clinic assumes no responsibility for errors, omissions, or variances in treatment outcomes based on the information provided in this pamphlet.
Furthermore, the references to products, medications, or treatments within this pamphlet do not imply endorsement by the clinic. Pet owners should verify the appropriateness of any product or treatment with their veterinarian.
In case of any signs of illness, discomfort, or behavioural changes in your pet, it is imperative to seek immediate veterinary attention. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to the effective management of veterinary health issues.
For further information or to schedule an appointment, please contact our clinic directly. Our team is committed to providing the highest level of care for your pet.
This pamphlet is the property of Zodiac Pet & Exotic Hospital ("ZPEH") and is not intended for commercial use or distribution without express permission from ZPEH.
Providing the right environment is crucial for the health and well-being of your terrapin (water turtle). Key elements include proper heating, effective filtration, and especially vital UVB lighting. This simple guide visually explains these essential components of a healthy terrapin habitat.
Download this quick reference to ensure you are providing your terrapin with the necessary UV light and other environmental factors needed for strong metabolism and a healthy immune system.
Terms of Use:
This informational pamphlet is provided as a courtesy to our clients and is intended for educational purposes only. The information contained herein reflects general guidelines and should not be construed as definitive veterinary advice or a substitute for professional consultation with a qualified veterinarian. The specific needs of individual pets may vary, and it is crucial to consult with a veterinarian to ensure that your pet receives care tailored to its unique requirements.
While we endeavour to provide accurate and up-to-date information, veterinary medicine is a rapidly evolving field, and some information may become outdated or be superseded by new research findings. The clinic assumes no responsibility for errors, omissions, or variances in treatment outcomes based on the information provided in this pamphlet.
Furthermore, the references to products, medications, or treatments within this pamphlet do not imply endorsement by the clinic. Pet owners should verify the appropriateness of any product or treatment with their veterinarian.
In case of any signs of illness, discomfort, or behavioural changes in your pet, it is imperative to seek immediate veterinary attention. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to the effective management of veterinary health issues.
For further information or to schedule an appointment, please contact our clinic directly. Our team is committed to providing the highest level of care for your pet.
This pamphlet is the property of Zodiac Pet & Exotic Hospital ("ZPEH") and is not intended for commercial use or distribution without express permission from ZPEH.
This care sheet is intended only to cover the general Map Turtle Care. Further research to best develop a maintenance plan for whichever species you are caring for is essential.
One of the largest Genera in terms of the number of species is Graptemys - the Map turtles. Some naturalists are fond of saying that every watershed East of the Rocky Mountains and North of Mexico in North America is host to its own species. While that may be somewhat of an exaggeration it is true that there are many species and considerable diversity in the Genus. These species are more carnivorous than most turtles with a natural diet that relies heavily on snails, crustaceans and mollusks. Map turtles are sexually dimorphic with males being considerable smaller than females. The typical adult size of males is 5 inches (12 cm) while females may reach 12 inches (30 cm) in length.
Long ago map turtles could often be found mixed in with the Red-ear Sliders in "five and dime" stores in the United States. Unfortunately these turtles (most of whom were Graptemys geographica) usually shared the same fate as the sliders: improper care followed by an early death. Present knowledge and technology makes it an easily maintained animal as long as a person is willing to provide some basic requirements.
Thanks to the success that breeders are having with these species it is now possible to purchase many of these species as hatchlings from captive born stock. Many of the species are threatened or endangered in nature, do not remove these animals from the wild.
HOUSING MAP TURTLES INDOORS - The most useful form of indoor accommodation for Graptemys consists of an aquarium. For hatchlings I would suggest a water depth of 3 to 6 inches (7.5 to 15 cm) with one end built up with rocks to provide a dry basking spot. A reasonable size aquarium for a hatchling is a 20 gallon: 30 inches by 12 inches, (75 cm by 30 cm). As the animal grows the size of this habitat should be increased. All Map turtles are excellent swimmers so water depth is not as critical a factor as they get older.. A depth of 10 inches up to 30 inches (25 cm to 75 cm) would be fine for turtles between 4 inches (10 cm) and adult size which can reach 8 inches (20 cm).
Water quality is very important. Many problems with aquatic turtles can be averted if one spends a little time and money designing and purchasing an adequate filtration system for your pets. For adult Map turtles we advise canister filters as they are easily cleaned and provide for excellent water quality. Hatchlings are more difficult to provide good filtration for because of the depth of the water, for these a submersible foam filer or power filter and frequent water changes is the rule.
In one corner of the environment a hardware store reflector clip light lamp should be positioned over a dry basking area to provide artificial basking facilities. This should be positioned to provide a basking spot of 90 degrees F or so (32 degrees C) in that section of the habitat. The habitat should also be equipped with a full spectrum fluorescent light to provide for UVB. A UVB source is necessary for Vitamin D3 syntheses (needed in calcium metabolism). If preferred to this lighting arrangement a Mercury vapor bulb may be used that fulfills all requirements. Live or plastic aquatic plants are suggested to provide a sense of security and hiding places.
OUTDOOR HOUSING Predator proof outdoor habitats offer many advantages over indoor accommodations and should seriously be considered as an option during warm weather. A child's wading pool sunk into the ground in a secure enclosure makes for a serviceable outdoor habitat. Larger ponds with advanced filtration can be used to provide a spectacular outdoor home for your Map turtle.
DIET. Be careful not to overfeed your Graptemys. I recommend only feeding 2 to 3 times a week for adult turtles and every day or every other day for the rapidly growing hatchlings. Map turtles are highly carnivorous and crayfish, snails, insects, worms may make up a large part of their diet. Some vegetable matter is also taken with hatchlings eating more duckweed and water plants than the adults. Many of the commercially prepared turtle diets that exist on the market today are excellent Map turtle food.
Additional calcium supplementation is essential. Powdered calcium can be sprinkled all foods. It is suggested that one use calcium supplemented with vitamin D3 if the animal is being maintained indoors and calcium without D3 if it is outdoors. Provision of a cuttlefish bone, which can be gnawed if desired, is also recommended.
Some of these species hibernate in nature. After careful research of methods used to safely do this, hibernation facilities may be provided for those that do so.
It should be noted that turtle and tortoise care research is ongoing. As new information becomes available we share this on the World Chelonian Trust web site at www.chelonia.org. Serious keepers find it to be a benefit to have the support of others who keep these species. Care is discussed in our free online email community, which may be joined from the web address above. Please contact us about the many benefits of becoming a member of the World Chelonian Trust.
www.chelonia.org - World Chelonian Trust
Terms of Use:
This informational pamphlet is provided as a courtesy to our clients and is intended for educational purposes only. The information contained herein reflects general guidelines and should not be construed as definitive veterinary advice or a substitute for professional consultation with a qualified veterinarian. The specific needs of individual pets may vary, and it is crucial to consult with a veterinarian to ensure that your pet receives care tailored to its unique requirements.
While we endeavour to provide accurate and up-to-date information, veterinary medicine is a rapidly evolving field, and some information may become outdated or be superseded by new research findings. The clinic assumes no responsibility for errors, omissions, or variances in treatment outcomes based on the information provided in this pamphlet.
Furthermore, the references to products, medications, or treatments within this pamphlet do not imply endorsement by the clinic. Pet owners should verify the appropriateness of any product or treatment with their veterinarian.
In case of any signs of illness, discomfort, or behavioural changes in your pet, it is imperative to seek immediate veterinary attention. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to the effective management of veterinary health issues.
For further information or to schedule an appointment, please contact our clinic directly. Our team is committed to providing the highest level of care for your pet.
This pamphlet is the property of Zodiac Pet & Exotic Hospital ("ZPEH") and is not intended for commercial use or distribution without express permission from ZPEH.
West African Mud Turtles (Pelusios castaneus) are fascinating aquatic reptiles originating from various parts of West Africa. Providing them with the correct environment and diet is crucial for their health and longevity. This comprehensive guide offers essential husbandry and diet information for your West African Mud Turtle.
This document covers quick facts about the species, details on their natural habitat, how to set up an ideal indoor enclosure (including tank size, substrate, filtration, heating, and lighting), maintaining optimal water quality, appropriate feeding based on age, common health issues, and a helpful habitat shopping list. Use this guide to ensure your West African Mud Turtle receives the best possible care.
Give your West African Mud Turtle the best home possible.
Download the comprehensive Care Guide now!
Terms of Use:
This informational pamphlet is provided as a courtesy to our clients and is intended for educational purposes only. The information contained herein reflects general guidelines and should not be construed as definitive veterinary advice or a substitute for professional consultation with a qualified veterinarian. The specific needs of individual pets may vary, and it is crucial to consult with a veterinarian to ensure that your pet receives care tailored to its unique requirements.
While we endeavour to provide accurate and up-to-date information, veterinary medicine is a rapidly evolving field, and some information may become outdated or be superseded by new research findings. The clinic assumes no responsibility for errors, omissions, or variances in treatment outcomes based on the information provided in this pamphlet.
Furthermore, the references to products, medications, or treatments within this pamphlet do not imply endorsement by the clinic. Pet owners should verify the appropriateness of any product or treatment with their veterinarian.
In case of any signs of illness, discomfort, or behavioural changes in your pet, it is imperative to seek immediate veterinary attention. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to the effective management of veterinary health issues.
For further information or to schedule an appointment, please contact our clinic directly. Our team is committed to providing the highest level of care for your pet.
This pamphlet is the property of Zodiac Pet & Exotic Hospital ("ZPEH") and is not intended for commercial use or distribution without express permission from ZPEH.
Box turtles (Terrapene species) are captivating reptiles known for their unique hinged shell. Providing them with the right environment and care is essential for their well-being. This detailed guide offers comprehensive information on keeping your box turtle healthy, happy, and safe.
This resource covers vital aspects of box turtle husbandry, including how to set up their enclosure with appropriate substrate, water access, and lighting, essential dietary recommendations, tips for overall health, recognizing common disorders, and when to seek veterinary care. Whether you have a Common Box Turtle subspecies or an Ornate Box Turtle, this guide provides foundational knowledge for responsible ownership.
Provide your box turtle with the best possible care.
Download the comprehensive Box Turtle Care Guide now!
Terms of Use:
This informational pamphlet is provided as a courtesy to our clients and is intended for educational purposes only. The information contained herein reflects general guidelines and should not be construed as definitive veterinary advice or a substitute for professional consultation with a qualified veterinarian. The specific needs of individual pets may vary, and it is crucial to consult with a veterinarian to ensure that your pet receives care tailored to its unique requirements.
While we endeavour to provide accurate and up-to-date information, veterinary medicine is a rapidly evolving field, and some information may become outdated or be superseded by new research findings. The clinic assumes no responsibility for errors, omissions, or variances in treatment outcomes based on the information provided in this pamphlet.
Furthermore, the references to products, medications, or treatments within this pamphlet do not imply endorsement by the clinic. Pet owners should verify the appropriateness of any product or treatment with their veterinarian.
In case of any signs of illness, discomfort, or behavioural changes in your pet, it is imperative to seek immediate veterinary attention. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to the effective management of veterinary health issues.
For further information or to schedule an appointment, please contact our clinic directly. Our team is committed to providing the highest level of care for your pet.
This pamphlet is the property of Zodiac Pet & Exotic Hospital ("ZPEH") and is not intended for commercial use or distribution without express permission from ZPEH.
Eastern Box Turtles (Terrapene carolina carolina) are fascinating native reptiles. While they are a protected species in many areas and should ideally be enjoyed in their natural habitat, understanding their needs is crucial if you encounter them in your yard or are involved in their care under specific circumstances. This detailed information sheet provides essential guidance on Eastern Box Turtle husbandry and diet.
Inside this guide, you'll find valuable information on their natural behavior, ideal enclosure setups (both outdoor and indoor considerations), proper feeding guidelines, crucial information on hibernation, and how to identify potential health issues. This resource is invaluable for ensuring the well-being of Eastern Box Turtles.
Learn how to best care for Eastern Box Turtles.
Download the comprehensive husbandry and diet guide now!
Terms of Use:
This informational pamphlet is provided as a courtesy to our clients and is intended for educational purposes only. The information contained herein reflects general guidelines and should not be construed as definitive veterinary advice or a substitute for professional consultation with a qualified veterinarian. The specific needs of individual pets may vary, and it is crucial to consult with a veterinarian to ensure that your pet receives care tailored to its unique requirements.
While we endeavour to provide accurate and up-to-date information, veterinary medicine is a rapidly evolving field, and some information may become outdated or be superseded by new research findings. The clinic assumes no responsibility for errors, omissions, or variances in treatment outcomes based on the information provided in this pamphlet.
Furthermore, the references to products, medications, or treatments within this pamphlet do not imply endorsement by the clinic. Pet owners should verify the appropriateness of any product or treatment with their veterinarian.
In case of any signs of illness, discomfort, or behavioural changes in your pet, it is imperative to seek immediate veterinary attention. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to the effective management of veterinary health issues.
For further information or to schedule an appointment, please contact our clinic directly. Our team is committed to providing the highest level of care for your pet.
This pamphlet is the property of Zodiac Pet & Exotic Hospital ("ZPEH") and is not intended for commercial use or distribution without express permission from ZPEH.
Are you the proud parent of a charming Chinese Box Turtle (Cuora flavomarginata)? These unique reptiles make fascinating companions, but they have specific needs to thrive. To help you provide the best possible care, we've compiled a comprehensive guide covering everything from their natural habitat and ideal enclosure setup to essential dietary information and recognizing common health issues.
This detailed information sheet, originally from the experts at Penn Veterinary Medicine, is an invaluable resource for any Cuora Box Turtle owner. Ensure your shelled friend enjoys a long, healthy, and happy life by understanding their specific requirements.
Ready to become a Cuora Box Turtle care expert?
Download our comprehensive care sheet now!
Terms of Use:
This informational pamphlet is provided as a courtesy to our clients and is intended for educational purposes only. The information contained herein reflects general guidelines and should not be construed as definitive veterinary advice or a substitute for professional consultation with a qualified veterinarian. The specific needs of individual pets may vary, and it is crucial to consult with a veterinarian to ensure that your pet receives care tailored to its unique requirements.
While we endeavour to provide accurate and up-to-date information, veterinary medicine is a rapidly evolving field, and some information may become outdated or be superseded by new research findings. The clinic assumes no responsibility for errors, omissions, or variances in treatment outcomes based on the information provided in this pamphlet.
Furthermore, the references to products, medications, or treatments within this pamphlet do not imply endorsement by the clinic. Pet owners should verify the appropriateness of any product or treatment with their veterinarian.
In case of any signs of illness, discomfort, or behavioural changes in your pet, it is imperative to seek immediate veterinary attention. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to the effective management of veterinary health issues.
For further information or to schedule an appointment, please contact our clinic directly. Our team is committed to providing the highest level of care for your pet.
This pamphlet is the property of Zodiac Pet & Exotic Hospital ("ZPEH") and is not intended for commercial use or distribution without express permission from ZPEH.
This care sheet is intended only to cover the general care of this species. Further research to best develop a maintenance plan for whichever species you are caring for is essential.
The most common "Pet Shop Turtle" throughout the years has been the Red-ear slider. It is massively farmed and millions are produced every year. While traditionally the purchase of one of these turtles resulted in its death a few weeks or months later, present knowledge and technology makes it an easily maintained animal as long as a person is willing to provide some basic requirements.
The most useful form of indoor accommodation for Sliders consists of an aquarium. For hatchlings I would suggest a water depth of 3 to 6 inches (7.5 to 15 cm) with one end built up with rocks to provide a dry basking spot. A reasonable size aquarium for a hatchling is a 20 gallon - 30 inches by 12 inches, (75 cm by 30 cm). As the animal grows the size of this habitat should be increased. All Sliders are excellent swimmers so water depth is not as critical a factor as they get older.. A depth of 10 inches up to 30 inches (20 cm to 60 cm) would be fine for turtles between 4 inches (10 cm) and adult size. Adult size of the Red-ear subspecies can reach 11 inches, Cumberland and Yellow-bellies Sliders stay somewhat smaller.
It is very important. Many problems with aquatic turtles can be averted if one spends a little time and money designing and purchasing an adequate filtration system for your pets. For adult sliders we advise canister filters as they are easily cleaned and provide for excellent water quality. Hatchlings are more difficult to provide good filtration for because of the depth of the water, for these a submersible foam filer or power filter and frequent water changes is the rule.
Want to learn more about the secrets to caring for your red-eared slider? We've prepared a detailed care guide for you, covering essential information such as habitat setup, dietary recommendations, common disease prevention, and more. Click to download now and help your red-eared slider live a healthy and happy life!
Terms of Use:
This informational pamphlet is provided as a courtesy to our clients and is intended for educational purposes only. The information contained herein reflects general guidelines and should not be construed as definitive veterinary advice or a substitute for professional consultation with a qualified veterinarian. The specific needs of individual pets may vary, and it is crucial to consult with a veterinarian to ensure that your pet receives care tailored to its unique requirements.
While we endeavour to provide accurate and up-to-date information, veterinary medicine is a rapidly evolving field, and some information may become outdated or be superseded by new research findings. The clinic assumes no responsibility for errors, omissions, or variances in treatment outcomes based on the information provided in this pamphlet.
Furthermore, the references to products, medications, or treatments within this pamphlet do not imply endorsement by the clinic. Pet owners should verify the appropriateness of any product or treatment with their veterinarian.
In case of any signs of illness, discomfort, or behavioural changes in your pet, it is imperative to seek immediate veterinary attention. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to the effective management of veterinary health issues.
For further information or to schedule an appointment, please contact our clinic directly. Our team is committed to providing the highest level of care for your pet.
This pamphlet is the property of Zodiac Pet & Exotic Hospital ("ZPEH") and is not intended for commercial use or distribution without express permission from ZPEH.
