Turtles can put your health in danger
First of all, you should know that all species of turtles carry salmonella. Salmonella is a bacteria that can be found in reptiles, but especially in turtles. They carry this bacteria in their feces, which can spread all over their bodies… nevertheless, they are safe, but the humans not so much.
Unfortunately, in people or other animals, salmonella could lead to severe gastrointestinal diseases, such as excessive vomiting and diarrhea, and this can in some cases even cause death. Moreover, if you have young children, try to avoid owning a turtle as a pet.Â
“While all pets are capable of passing diseases on to people, turtles are notorious for shedding salmonella bacteria in their feces, which can spread all over their bodies and their habitats,” says Jennifer Coates, DVM, a veterinarian on the advisory board of Pet Life Today.
If you still want to adopt a turtle, then you should wash and disinfect your hands before and after interacting with them.