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Can a turtle feel its shell?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

A membrane lines the bone which has nerve endings in it. Therefore, the shell itself doesn't sense pain (think of it like your fingernails) but if punctured, crushed, or damaged, yes the turtle will feel pain linked to the shell.

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Question

Can a turtle's skin really harm me with salmonella?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

Yes. Turtles and other reptiles are common carries of the salmonella bug. This means they can be infected but not ill, but a person who handles the turtle and doesn't wash their hands can become sick. It's important to observe scrupulous hygiene when you own a turtle, wash your hands after handling, and regularly disinfect the area around the tank, door handles, and any surfaces you might touch whilst handling the reptile.

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Question

Is it safe for my 10 year old child to pet a turtle?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

The FDA advise that turtles are common carriers of salmonella. Infection with the latter can be serious, especially in children, the elderly or those with a weak immune system. It is essential that any child is supervised with a turtle and be vigilant for the child putting a finger in their mouth, or even touching their hair (as the salmonella could be transferred to hair which the child then sucks.) If you want to be totally safe then a 10-year old should not pet a turtle, but at the very least ensure they wash their hands afterwards and don't put anything in their mouth.

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Question

How do I avoid turtle bites?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

Turtle bites are very painful and best avoided. If you are unsure how friendly the turtle is, pick it up at the back of the shell, where it can't reach you should it decide to bite

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