Are Turtles Safe Pets For Toddlers

Babies and toddlers explore the world through their mouths which means gumming a pet tortoise is pretty likely.

Are turtles safe pets for toddlers. Babies and toddlers do not understand that tortoises and turtles are living breathing feeling creatures. This is due to the fact that they often carry illnesses such as salmonella. Children are known to be endlessly fascinated by them and they often have long conversations with them since turtles can stay in one position for long durations.

Although with a little help from mom or dad turtles can be one of the more low maintenance pets to care for they are typically not an ideal pet for children. Best pets for kids. This pet may end up becoming the oldest member of your family and also the wisest.

If your family is expecting a child remove any reptile or amphibian from the home before the. All animals need attention grooming and care but compared to their counterparts the following creatures require relatively minimal work. Children should be supervised and taught proper hygiene.

Turtles and tortoises have rather long lifespans which most people aren t prepared to deal with. Turtles as pets for kids is not a good idea if the children are going to be always supervised when handling the pets. Some are very friendly and personable which make them that much more fun to have as pets but the problem lies with proper care and their long lifespan.

If you do decide to keep it you should have strict rules about hand washing after the child has handled the turtle. Here is a link to the cdc s website that explains more. If you plan to take care of them clean them and only let your kid look at it or play a bit than it is ok.

Tortoises are not safe pets for babies or toddlers. I wouldn t recommend it. Turtles are calm gentle and peaceful creatures.