Help! New to Russian Tortoises

brittjoslyn211

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Joined
Dec 8, 2013
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18
Hello everyone! I am new to tortoises. I bought this guy a few days ago, a Russian Tortoise. I've been reading up on Russian Tortoises, and am a little concerned about his shell. Can anyone give me any info on this guy? What kind of health he is in, if the shape and coloring of his shell is ok? Any information provided will help :). Thanks in advance!
 

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kanalomele

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I'm with Wellington on this one. He looks fine to me as well. The keratin layer of his shell is a bit rough which is harmless, but I don't see any rot at all.
 

brittjoslyn211

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Dec 8, 2013
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Thanks for the help! Also, when I lightly scratch his shell or pet his shell, he lets me do it a couple times, then kind of jolts and starts walking away fast (for a tortoise lol). I know that their shell is sensitive, but could this possibly be painful to him?
 

stinax182

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no, he just doesn't like it :p my Russian use to freak if i tickled the top of his shell....he'd spin in circles like he's looking for what's doing it then bolt. give him some time and he may or may not start to enjoy it. try approaching him slowly from the front so he sees you...he may hide but over time he'll feel more comfortable
 
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