GreenKnight33
New Member
Saturday Oct 23rd, we'll be getting a 35 year old Male Desert Tortoise.
From reading the Forums, I’ve heard it could take several weeks for them to get used to their new surroundings, but by then we’re hitting November (45 at night, 85 in the day) in So Cal.
We will be getting him checked by the Vet the following Monday morning – btw – what do people recommend how best to bring your DT in when seeing the vet? Just a box or plastic tote?
Options
If Vet says he’s not healthy then, is prevailing Desert Tortoise wisdom to NOT brumate this year.
A challenge is that my garage is insulated so it ranges from 50-70 when we get our SoCal 'winter'. That's outside of what I'm reading is brumation within the 45-55 range. With a double box setup, could I use freezer packs on the inner side of the box (so not touching the DT) to help cool the temperature in the box? And of course, two weeks of no food so there’s nothing in their system. Plus I’ll be giving him soaks every other day to make sure he’s hydrated.
Thank you in advance for all your advice!
From reading the Forums, I’ve heard it could take several weeks for them to get used to their new surroundings, but by then we’re hitting November (45 at night, 85 in the day) in So Cal.
We will be getting him checked by the Vet the following Monday morning – btw – what do people recommend how best to bring your DT in when seeing the vet? Just a box or plastic tote?
Options
If Vet says he’s not healthy then, is prevailing Desert Tortoise wisdom to NOT brumate this year.
- If so, then is best option let him stay outside during the day (with Cinderblock burrow and shade provided), and then if night get’s too cold, get it a shelter like a dog igloo…something with a door?
A challenge is that my garage is insulated so it ranges from 50-70 when we get our SoCal 'winter'. That's outside of what I'm reading is brumation within the 45-55 range. With a double box setup, could I use freezer packs on the inner side of the box (so not touching the DT) to help cool the temperature in the box? And of course, two weeks of no food so there’s nothing in their system. Plus I’ll be giving him soaks every other day to make sure he’s hydrated.
Thank you in advance for all your advice!