New Russian, Need Advice

[michelle52988]

Hello all, I am new to the site! I would really appreciate some advice! My husband got me a russian tortoise for christmas and i am looking to upgrade her enclosure. Any reccomendations on something that isnt going to break my bank account?...also what sort of substrate is the best for a russian tortoise?..The pet store reccomended bed-a-beast (the bricks that you put in water and they expand) however it is horribly messy!! ANY advice is very much appreciated!!

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Thank you

 

[sammi]

You can use a christmas tree tub or a rubbermaid under the bed storage bin. Both are pretty inexpensive. How big is he/she? What type of enclosure is he/she in now? If you aren't fond of bed a beast, you can try cypress mulch. It isn't as messy, and still holds moisture for humidity =]

 

[michelle52988]

Thank you so much, I think im going to buy a large tote, or a couple totes and put them together.right now she is in a guinea pig cage, with the cage on the top and plstic bottom...it doesn't hold heat very well, She is about 5 inches.

 

[Yvonne G]

Hi Michelle:

to the forum!!

 

[kimber_lee_314]

Go to russiantortoise.org for some great advice. I overwinter my russians exactly as the site recommends and they are doing great. (I recommend an outside enclosure when the weather permits.)

 

[sammi]

Thank you so much, I think im going to buy a large tote, or a couple totes and put them together.right now she is in a guinea pig cage, with the cage on the top and plstic bottom...it doesn't hold heat very well, She is about 5 inches.

That would work very well too. Heres a link to some pictures in the enclosure section, and someone did exactly what you're talking about. It turned out very nice.

http://tortoiseforum.org/thread-8536.html

 

[dmmj]

If you are looking for big I would suggest a bookcase, they are usually inexspensive, sometimes I find them at yard sales, and usually at a good price.