Top 5 reasons why a Turtle or Tortoise should not be bought for Holiday Gifts

1. Top 5 reasons why a Turtle or Tortoise should not be bought for Holiday Gifts www.tortoise.com

2. American Tortoise Rescue (ATR), is an international non-profit sanctuary that proposes not to buy any live animals including Turtle and Tortoise as holiday gifts. Susan Tellem, co-founder of ATR says that the population of turtles and tortoises has been devastated though they have outlived dinosaurs. They were being smuggled, traded, etc. Once thriving species have now become endangered. It is sad that the species is extinct as well. This holiday it is recommended that animals should not be bought as gifts understanding the appeal of small turtles. www.tortoise.com

3. There are five reasons why should not buy a turtle or tortoise as a gift - • Children may find turtles boring as they don't do tricks like Ninja Turtles. They don't want to clean their habitat as well. • If turtles and tortoises are kept in the tank they are miserable. They should be kept outdoors with access to the sun and shade and a safe fence to maintain a healthy shell. www.tortoise.com

4. Turtles live for 25-50 years and tortoises can live up to 100 years. They can outlive their owners, and therefore, plans should be made in the will for them. • Adoption is the best option for this animal with a promise that exceptional care will be given to it. www.tortoise.com

5. Most turtles and tortoises are hibernating at this time in nature. They should not be for sale in a pet shop where they will be kept awake during this important time regenerating their lives for the next year. www.tortoise.com

6. American Tortoise Rescue 30765 Pacific Coast Hwy Malibu, California 90265 310-589-5521