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

    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

    Read more
  • Red Eared Sliders

    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

    Read more
  • Tortoises

    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

    Read more
1

Testimonials

Read What Our Clients Say

  • "Always friendly and courteous"
    donm, Okotoks
  • "Everyone is very professional, friendly and helpful. The atmosphere is warm and inviting. Overall we are very pleased with the service and care Pete received and would recommend taking your fur babies to see them anytime."
    anonymous
  • "Excellent service.Friendly staff.
    Show kindness and consideration of the animals."
    aliceh, Okotoks
  • "I was so amazed on how accommodating they were and they staff was friendly and helpful."
    Allisonk, Calgary
  • "The staff at Foothills are always very accommodating and super friendly, our dogs feel very comfortable when we take them into the clinic as well, that means and tells us the most about the total atmosphere at Foothills Animal Hospital."
    Dong Okotoks