Rescuing a 5 year old Red Footed Tortoise - so overwhelmed!

[NeverNot]

Hi! I'm Lisa (aka NeverNot), I live in Ontario Canada, and I am coming into possession of a 5 year old Red Footed Tortoise in a few days. I run a kitten rescue, but have zero reptile experience (no, there will be no mixing of cats and tortoises).

Right now the enclosure he is in is 3 by 2 feet, max. He can barely turn around in it. I know enough to know it isn't right. The owner is a friend going through life struggles, so I offered to take the animal to give it the care it deserves while they get their ducks in a row, so to speak.

I'm going to be spending all of my free time reading this forum. I must admit I have no idea where to start, although I'm sure there are threads to find that will help! I have space indoors and want to do it right.

Thanks

 

[wellington]

He will need a room size enclosure. None that are premade will be big enough unless it's a pop up greenhouse that can be placed indoors.
He will need it humid, 80%. Doesn't need a basking spot but does need heat and the enclosure needs to be 85. Also needs a tube flourescent uvb. Ceramic heat emitters are usually used for heat. Safe plants for hiding and coconut coir or orchid bark for substrate.

 

[NeverNot]

He will need a room size enclosure. None that are premade will be big enough unless it's a pop up greenhouse that can be placed indoors.
He will need it humid, 80%. Doesn't need a basking spot but does need heat and the enclosure needs to be 85. Also needs a tube flourescent uvb. Ceramic heat emitters are usually used for heat. Safe plants for hiding and coconut coir or orchid bark for substrate.

Thanks for replying! I have lots of room and can make him a room sized enclose. If that's what he needs, then that's what he gets.

I was looking at pop up greenhouses actually. The space I have is temperature controlled but not humidity controlled. Thank you for the recommendations - it really does help when I'm starting from scratch!

 

[Alex and the Redfoot]

Hello and welcome!

This thread will be a good start: https://tortoiseforum.org/threads/redfoot-tortoise-care-sheet.175319/
And this one if you prefer "visuals": https://tortoiseforum.org/threads/young-red-foot-cherryhead-set-up.217803/

And of course, ask questions - we'll help you to get through the tough learning curve.

 

[NeverNot]

Hello and welcome!

This thread will be a good start: https://tortoiseforum.org/threads/redfoot-tortoise-care-sheet.175319/
And this one if you prefer "visuals": https://tortoiseforum.org/threads/young-red-foot-cherryhead-set-up.217803/

And of course, ask questions - we'll help you to get through the tough learning curve.

Thank you thank you!!! I can't tell you how much I appreciate the help!!!

 

[Ink]

Welcome to the forum.

 

[wellington]

The members here will help you with everything you need help with.
Ask away if needed.

 

[Megatron's Mom]

Welcome to the forum.

 

[EppsDynasty]

Welcome to the best Tortoise place there is.