This care sheet concerns the general care of tortoises. Tortoises are terrestrial turtles, reptiles that are characterized by a hard shell that protects their internal organs. The upper portion of this shell is known as the carapace, and the lower portion is known as the plastron. Rather than teeth, tortoises have hard beaks. Scientifically classified, tortoises are of the order Testudines.

Tortoises are often kept as pets, and the care of most species is very similar. While many tortoises are easy to care for, some may have specific lighting, temperature, or humidity requirements. In addition to this document, you should consult your tortoises's specific animal care information on the CentralPets.com website.

Before acquiring a tortoise, take the time to do research that will aid you in determining which type of tortoise is right for you. If possible, consult people who have owned that type of tortoise. Your research may also help you decide whether to obtain a wild-caught or captive-bred tortoise, as the two types may vary in ease of care, docility, and health. Some types of tortoise are essentially always wild caught, and others may be essentially captive bred, though many can be available as either type.

When selecting your tortoise, be sure it is in good condition. Pick it up if you can; a healthy tortoise will feel solid or substantial, while an unhealthy animal will feel as though it has an empty shell. Any exposed area of the tortoise should be clean and free of swelling, and if you gently tug on one of the tortoise's back legs, a healthy animal will generally pull its leg back away from you. A healthy tortoise's eyes should be clear, bright, alert, and fully open, without any discharge. The nostrils and mouth should also be free from discharge, bubbles, or secretions. A healthy tortoise's breathing is silent and can be accomplished easily without the animal having to open its mouth. The shell of a healthy tortoise is not slimy, and does not exhibit any patches of discoloration. The beak should be clean and uniform, without any cracks or growths. Common sense should always prevail when selecting or trying to determine the health of an animal. Find out if there is a guarantee or if you can return the tortoise if a veterinarian determines it to be unhealthy.

When acquiring a tortoise, you should also find a veterinarian experienced in and knowledgeable about reptiles. It is good practice to have a veterinarian check over the tortoise to ensure it is free of diseases and parasites before exposing it to other reptiles you may have. This checkup should include microscopic examination of a fecal sample. Many wild-caught specimens as well as some captive bred specimens may have parasitic infections or other problems, which will need to be treated in order to improve the animals' health and reduce the threat to your other animals.

	Part Two - Housing
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Please Note: This care sheet is copyright © The Central Pets Educational Foundation (CentralPets.com). It may be freely distributed provided that this notice and Copyright remains included and unchanged. We encourage veterinarians, clubs, pet stores, breeders, humane societies, and others to use this to educate people and promote better pet care. Additions, suggestions, corrections, and questions regarding this care sheet are welcome and should be directed to content@CentralPets.com