Techno Tort Topic

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lighthiker2

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In many parts of the country temps are falling with today's Autumnal Equinox. Just as people don sweaters and hats, torts need the warmth even moreso. I have seen the adorable tortoise sweaters - and gave a concept for a practical upgrade that will allow our torts to enjoy mire fresh air even with cooler temps.

Enter this equation:

Tort sweater + solar cell + thermo-controlled mini heating pad inserted in lower sweater pocket = happy tort who can longer enjoy sunshine and grazing and avoid the tort version of SAD.

I am working on a beta version and will record data to evaluate the trial.
 

Jacqui

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Won't the sweater block the sun getting to the tortoise? Won't it catch on the plants?
 

Tom

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Like Jacqui noted, sweaters work as insulation. An animal that is not generating its own heat will simply be more likely to stay whatever temperature it already is for a longer period of time with a sweater on. It will prevent them from warming just the same as cooling.

As for portable electric heating devices placed on or near a tortoise, I wouldn't take that risk.

I'd rather provide a cold frame of some sort, or even a basking lamp outdoors if need be. Pig blankets work well for larger tortoises too.
 

ascott

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Tort sweater + solar cell + thermo-controlled mini heating pad inserted in lower sweater pocket

So a solar tortoise sweater/mobile heating sleeve? Interesting, I will wait for your progress update...:D
 

lighthiker2

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Insulated and controlled heating. Properly constructed sweater top will still allow some uvb. Base layer a smooth fabric pocket that will not catch.

Like a portable mini pig blanket to let my boy avoid SAD for those seasonal shoulder times.
 
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