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Learn the importance of UVB light for your reptiles and the right reptile lights for your pet’s habitat.
Updated on March 30th, 2026
Learn how to care for Freshwater Amphibians, recommended diet and habitat setup. Find the right food, supplies and equipment at your neighborhood Petco.
Updated on October 23rd, 2025
Learn how to care for large marine fish, recommended diet and habitat setup. Find the right food, supplies and equipment at your neighborhood Petco.
Updated on October 23rd, 2025
Learn how to set up a saltwater fish tank and key considerations regarding placement, supplies needed, and the overall set up process.
Updated on October 23rd, 2025
Learn how to set up a freshwater fish tank and key considerations regarding placement, supplies needed, and the set up process.
Updated on October 23rd, 2025
Thanks for reaching out about Shelley. Starting with a good website such as the San Diego Turtle & Tortoise Society (instead of just copying it to here). At the minimum, a 30-40 gallon aquarium. Set up for a haul out area under a basking site. The basking site should reach 90+ degrees and also include ultraviolet B radiation (special bulb). Food can consist of turtle pellets (purchased in small quantities, used in 3 months, with the remainder thrown away). Fresh chopped vegetables can also be offered but it usually takes a while for turtles to accept it as food. Testing water quality and cleaning regularly. Good luck.
Updated on September 24th, 2025
As for what kind of tank you will need: Basically a square fish tank, do not get a bowl. You will likely need a heater and an air pump, and a thermometer, It is easiest to by a complete kit at a pet shop. As for size of tank: The bigger is always the better....however a minimum size will be determined by the type of fish and their average size they will grow into, So once we know what type of fish you have and how many, we can tell you how big your tank needs to be and what type of "furniture" (rocks, plants, gravel) you will need.
Updated on September 24th, 2025
A 10 gallon tank can be purchased in the local Petco for less than twenty dollars ( https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/product/fish/fish-aquariums-kits/aquariums-up-to-ten-gallons/aqueon-standard-glass-aquarium-tank-10-gallon ). It would be easier to keep and secure than a laundry hamper. Given the temps required for geckos, plastic may not be the best option either. You will need a a heat lamp for day use and maybe a heat source if nighttime temperatures drop below 70 F. You can use slate, reptile carpet, plain paper towels or a coconut fiber substrate. Review gecko care at the link below. http://www.reptilesmagazine.com/Care-Sheets/Lizards/Leopard-Gecko/
Updated on September 24th, 2025
What you have is a species of slider. It could be a Yellow Bellied Slider. First, be sure it is legal in your state/county to keep a wild caught slider. You will need a tank large enough to provide swimming and basking areas. The general guideline is 10 gallons per inch of turtle. Choose a strong filter to help maintain water quality. It should be rated for at least twice the volume of the tank. You will likely need to perform partial water changes every few weeks though. Other necessary items include: a heat lamp over a basking area, a basking area easily accessible from the water, UVB lighting and a submersible water heater. Feed a balanced diet of animal protein (feeder fish, nightcrawlers, etc.), fresh greens and vegetables and commercial pellets. A multivitamin and a calcium supplement will also be needed. Consider having the turtle examined by your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating reptiles to confirm good health or to diagnose and treat any pre-existing condit
Updated on September 24th, 2025
He can use a plastic tote until you get a tank, but it should be a much larger one than Guido is in right now. Find one that is at least 20 gallons. Provide water deep enough for him to swim in as well as a dry area to rest and bask. Provide a water filter, water heater,heat lamp and UVB light source. You can feed a commercial pelleted or stick diet supplemented with fresh greens and prey such as feeder fish or nightcrawlers. He may not be eating because water or ambient temperatures are too low. Low temps can affect appetite and digestion in reptiles. The link below will provide more information regarding slider care. http://www.anapsid.org/reslider.html
Updated on September 24th, 2025