Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Things You’ll Need:
- Commitment and a little information
Caring for a Pet Turtle
Step1
Identify the species. The first thing you need to do is find out what kind of turtle you have. Different species require different environments and diets. For example, box turtles are land dwellers that can eat a wide variety of foods, likely things you already have in the fridge. Conversely, Red Ear Sliders need a place to swim and can eat pellets, much like those you feed to aquarium fish. Look in books or online until you find a photo that identifies your turtle.
Step2
Find a vet. It may be wise at this point to pay a call to your local vet. Not all vets treat turtles, but with a little research you can probably find one in your area. Like all animals, your turtle will need the occasional visit to the vet to keep healthy. If you have children that will be handling the turtle, this step is especially important as the vet can check it for any diseases and other health issues. Turtle diets vary widely by species so get her advice on what to feed him.
Step3
Get him set up. You will need to buy or build something in which to house your turtle. Make sure that he has plenty of room to move around. You will need a water source as well. For water turtles, give them a place to swim and explore, as well as a place to be completely out of the water. Land turtles may also enjoy having the option to get wet, but only water to drink is necessary. All turtles need a place to go to with light to keep them warm. Place a good sized rock and a lamp in one corner of the turtle house. Make sure he is big enough to climb the rock on his own. The closer you can get the turtle house to approximate his natural environment, the happier the turtle will be. Put sand or rocks on the bottom of the swimming area. Turtles enjoy playing with the rocks, so get aquarium gravel if you can. Add sticks, grass, leaves or whatever else you like to the house as well.
Step4
Prepare for the long term. Routine maintenance of turtles is not very taxing. You will just need to clean the turtle house about once a week and take him to the vet at least once per year. Turtles don't really need to be let out the way that dogs do, but you or your children may want to let him out of his house anyway just for fun. Before letting the turtle roam, make sure the area is secure, i.e. free from other pets that may harm him. Turtles may seem tough because of their shells, but they are actually quite delicate. Keep a close eye while he is out and do try to limit his handling. Again, turtles are not like dogs who need attention and play time. They are happiest when left alone. Plan to have the turtle looked after when you go on vacation, just as you would your other pets. They need food and fresh water every day. Most important of all, before buying a turtle, be realistic about his eventual size and longevity. Some turtles will grow from a few inches into a size that makes it difficult to keep him inside. Taking care of a large turtle is a bit different, as he will need more food, more water and more room. Also, some species can live even longer than humans, so be sure that you are ready to accept a turtle as a long term member of your family. If you feel that you cannot make a commitment to the turtle, then please do not buy one! If you already have a turtle that you feel you cannot care for properly, do NOT simply let him go. The turtle has become dependent upon you for food, water and shelter and may not be able to fare on his own. There are also many negative implications of introducing a non native species into an environment. Take him to the vet, a shelter, a zoo or call a local turtle rescue group. You will surely be able to find a way to get your turtle placed into a good home.
http://www.waynet.org/waynet/spotlight/2004/images/07/turtle_back.jpg
BOX TURTLE
Novice 
