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turtle on log

Turtles are not easy or low maintenance reptiles. Generally, turtles (including the commonly found red-eared sliders) are messy and long-lived. They can get quite large, so they require large housing and need exposure to ultraviolet light. Also, offering a variety of foods, like commercial pelleted food, fruits, and vegetables, is the best way to feed most turtles. If you can deal with these factors and commit to caring for a turtle over its long life span, a turtle might be a good pet for you. Here, we go over a few of the most common species of turtles to own and care for as pets.

  • Box Turtles
    Category: Choosing Your Pet, Exotics, Reptiles, Turtles, Choosing Your Pet, Exotics

    North American box turtles are mainly terrestrial turtles, although they do spend some time in shallow water (Asian box turtles tend to be a bit more aquatic). Compared to aquatic turtles such as red eared sliders, they are more challenging and complex pets, and are not the best choice for beginning

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  • Red Eared Sliders
    Category: Choosing Your Pet, Exotics, Reptiles, Turtles

    Red eared sliders are semi aquatic turtles that are very commonly kept as pets. Unfortunately, lack of understanding what they require means that many red eared sliders have died from improper care. While they are not overly demanding as pets, many unsuspecting owners have been told that it was fine

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  • Tortoises
    Category: Choosing Your Pet, Exotics, Reptiles, Turtles

    Tortoises can make an interesting pet, although they can present a challenge, due to their size and dietary habits. Their diets vary based on species, but all need quite a variety of foods, with careful attention paid to the amount of roughage as well as calcium/phosphorus balance. Some species have

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  • "Unfortunately had to put down my 15 year old cat. Jones animal staff is compassionate and honest when you need them to be most. Every time in you can see the passion everyone there has for every pet they see. I know who I can trust when i get a puppy soon. Thank you for the care and making the best of a tough situation."
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  • "We used to see another Veterinarian, however, when our dog was sick we couldn't get an appointment for a couple of weeks. My daughter recommended Jones Animal Hospital, and I called. I was able to get our dog in the same day. When we met with Dr. Jones, he answered all of my questions completely without rushing me at all. We have been treated promptly, with friendly respect by the entire staff each time we visit. The medical care has been knowledgeable and helpful. The fees are extremely reasonable, too. We have found our animals' home for medical care!"
    Dori O.
  • "The people here are so nice and are very concerned for the animals they treat. Prices are the most reasonable I have come across as well. I recently took in one of my young kitties to be spayed, they keep them override which is nice so they can make sure they have they the experience well. The day after I brought her home, they called to check up on her to see how she was doing. I have never had a veterinary office do that before. I would recommend this office to anyone & everyone!!"
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  • "They have been taking wonderful care of my pets for many years."
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