FAQ: Keeping a Tortoise as a Pet

What do I do when he is ready to hibernate?
Your tortoise needs to be placed in the middle of a large, strong box, packed with insulating material such as straw, shredded paper or dry autumn leaves. The box needs to be fitted with a strong but well-ventilated lid.

Where should I store my tortoise during hibernation?
It is best to keep the box in a cool, but well-ventilated place such as a garden shed. The box containing your tortoise must be protected from frost - this can usually be achieved by being raised slightly from the ground. You must also take precautions against fume-inhalation (i.e. a garage is not suitable); and attack by pests. Rats, mice and cats may pose a serious threat to your tortoise.

When will my tortoise 'wake up'?
When they rouse from hibernation in the spring, tortoises need to be cared for indoors for several weeks to warm up and reach an active state again. Attempt to bathe open the eyes and mouth, and give a warm bath in a shallow bath of warm water. When the tortoise's body temperature rises above 15 degrees Celsius, a tortoise will begin to feed again.

What dangers are involved when a tortoises 'wakes up'?
It is very dangerous to let your tortoise lapse back into its hibernation state. Although it will appear perfectly healthy, your tortoise will quickly die of malnutrition if it does not eat after rousing and then slips back into hibernation. Supply plenty of your tortoises favorite food soon after it awakes in springtime.

Are tortoises prone to any specific ailments?
Tortoises are frequently subject to colds, showing symptoms of labored breathing, watery eyes and a discharging nose. Keep him in a warm environment, and bathe the eyes and nose periodically. If there is no improvement after a week, seek medical advice. When a tick is found on one of the tortoise's limbs, dab it with a few drops of methylated spirit. This treatment will mean it gradually loses its grip until it can be safely pulled out with a pair of tweezers.

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