Hi! Introduce yourselves here. :: Budgeting for a turtle

[jtrstars]

I have recently join this forum in hopes that many of you can help me with getting and caring for a turtle.

For Christmas I was given a $85 gift to Pet Smart to buy a RES. This was a huge surprise for me. The problem is when I went to Pet Smart website to see their prices and I'm afraid that $85 may not be enough to properly raise a RES. I was hoping you all could give me some help with budgeting so I will be able to purchase my RES and get the proper equipment to care for him or her. I'm especially looking for a cheap but quality tank for one RES. Hopefully one that will last for the turtle's whole life.

[steve]

There is quite a bit of start up costs to get a turtle tank running. If you do not yet have a turtle, then I'd look for classifieds and pick up a turtle + tank. If you can't get an incredible deal. then you can still get a turtle free from a rescue. A tank and filter will be expensive. The best deals for new tanks are 55 gallons for $55. This would be very good for a male RES. Females would require a bit more space. A decent or generic filter would cost about the same. You'll need a heater, thermometer and basking area as well. A very good heater will set you back about $18.

[jtrstars]

Thanks for the advice. I could use the Petsmart gift card to cover some of the more expensive items for the turtle, and adopt a turtle from a rescue shelter. Some of the more general equipment I could purchase elsewhere for good deals.

[steve]

It would be awesome if you can pick up a rescue! Besides a basic tank, there are not many good deals on large items at pet stores. Stuff like thermometers, food and treats are OK. Bigger items like filters, heaters and lights are better purchased on-line.