Can you adopt a turtle?
Sea turtle adoptions are a fun way to show your loved one that you care! You’ll be helping save a threatened or endangered species. With your donation, you will be providing the food, medication, hospital care, and tank maintenance critical to your adopted turtle’s health.
Can I own a tortoise in Maryland?
To protect turtles, the law prohibits the removal of some species from the wild. It is also illegal to possess any turtle under 4 inches in length. Reptiles that have been bred in captivity, or which are not native to Maryland, may not be released into the wild.
Do animal shelters have turtles?
Turtle and Tortoise Adoption. Each year, California Turtle and Tortoise Club Adoption Committees place hundreds of abandoned, lost, seized, injured or diseased turtles and tortoises that have been turned in by other humane organizations, members of the public, local and federal government officers and veterinarians.
How do you adopt a pet turtle?
If you’ve done extensive research and are prepared for the commitment and responsibility of a turtle, we suggest you adopt one from a local animal shelter or rescue group, instead of creating more demand for turtles by purchasing one from a pet store. Visit the Shelter Pet Project to find your local shelter.
Can you buy turtles in MD?
A Captive Reptile & Amphibian Permit is required if you possess turtles less than 4 inches. state, with proper documentation. any other reptile and have not been in captivity for more than 30 days. A person may not possess more than one snapping turtle taken from the wild for noncommercial purposes.
Will Petco take my unwanted turtle?
People who want to participate can simply take the turtles to the nearest store. Though the CDC warning applies to the smallest turtles, Petco will accept turtles of any size, Burch said. Infection typically occurs when young children handle turtles or related objects and then put their hands in their mouths.
Can I leave my turtle at Petco?
However, Petco stores will accept any aquatic turtle, regardless of size. Don’t buy small turtles under four inches from street vendors, websites, pet stores or any other sources. Do not capture turtles in the wild and keep them as pets.
Are turtles cheap pets?
Fortunately, turtles can be relatively inexpensive in comparison to cats and dogs, but require consistent and dedicated care throughout their lives in addition to a suitable habitat to live in.
Should I get one or two turtles?
Turtles are not social creatures. They do not get lonely and do not need a friend. You can always put more than one turtle in the same tank, though some species tend to be more aggressive and some may fight, so this is best handled on a case by case basis. Turtles DO carry salmonella (so do all other reptiles).
Where can I get a pet turtle in Maryland?
We are licensed by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources to find new homes for unwanted and/or non-releasable pet native turtles. The turtles and tortoises available for adoption come from a variety of sources. Some are given up by their owners and some are from animal control facilities and shelters.
Is there a reptile rescue in Maryland?
Medusa’s Misfit Rescue is a non profit reptile rescue based in Maryland. We provide a safe, fun, and loving environment for all pet reptiles. **We are currently in Stage 1 of reopening to surrenders, and are experiencing unusually high volumes.
How to apply for adoption of a turtle?
TO REQUEST AN ADOPTION APPLICATION: Applications can be mailed to you, either as an e-mail attachment, or through the US Postal Service. E-mail [email protected] to request an application. Complete the application in full. A vet reference is required, even if your vet does not see turtles.
Is it illegal to release a pet turtle?
In most states it is illegal to release a pet of any kind, even a turtle, to help protect native species that might be affected by diseases transmitted by non-native animals. Turtles are given up for adoption for many of the same reasons that dogs and cats are offered for adoption.