Tortoise Depression / Relocation Stress

[EppsDynasty]

We received Dash a 50 lb. Sulcata a few weeks ago and noticed almost immediately what we felt were depression/stress issues. He received daily interaction with his previous owners and pretty much lived inside. We are now giving him a more natural environment with an outdoor enclosure and regular visits from us. We make it a point to interact with him as much as possible with activities such as reading a book to him. We stay in his pen for 5-10 minutes every time we feed and talk to him and stroke his shell. Despite all of this he is reluctant to come out of the house and walk around during the day. Any tips or tricks to help he get comfortable would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Yvonne G]

I had that problem too when I was 'rescuing'. I set that turtle/tortoise up in an indoor enclosure, placed where the most activity was going on. I put the animal outside for minimum amounts of time, longer each day. It seems once they realize they're going back indoors where they feel safe they become more relaxed outside.

 

[EppsDynasty]

I had that problem too when I was 'rescuing'. I set that turtle/tortoise up in an indoor enclosure, placed where the most activity was going on. I put the animal outside for minimum amounts of time, longer each day. It seems once they realize they're going back indoors where they feel safe they become more relaxed outside.

Thank You. I was thinking of bringing him inside and allowing him to walk around and be with us for more time (than while in his enclosure).

 

[Yvonne G]

I'm only guessing, but, I think the deal is he's found a safe place (his shelter) and he's going to stay there so it can't be taken away. So put him out for a time then back in to the safe place for the night.

 

[Tom]

I wouldn't do any of that, and I wouldn't worry about him. Give him the right temps and the right enclosure, put out the food, keep the water clean, and leave him be. I wouldn't bring him inside. That's dangerous and they find ways to kill themselves that you could never imagine.

I'd bring him out of the box and cart him to the other side of the enclosure several times a day and let him walk back into the shelter, or explore, as he chooses. This is a reptile, not a toddler or a puppy.