Things You'll Need
- Turtle Food
- Turtle Terrarium Or Aquarium
- Turtle
Instructions
Decide whether you want a pet that can be time-consuming and expensive to take care of. If the turtle is for a child, consider whether he's old enough to take safety precautions when handling this wild animal.
Go to a reputable pet store to buy your turtle. Tanks in the store should be clean, and turtles shouldn't be living in overcrowded conditions.
Talk to the pet salesperson about the different kinds of turtles. Do you want a land turtle and terrarium or a water turtle and aquarium? Red-eared sliders, cooters and mud turtles are good varieties for a responsible older child.
Look for a turtle with bright, clear eyes. These are indications that she's healthy. Avoid animals with dry, cracked skin or soft shells.
Choose a turtle that resists when you pick her up. She should move her legs and head when touched.