Norbert the Tortoise. Responsible Pet Ownership. Toledo Ohio Exotic Pet Portraits.
From Jessica:
Many people know the draw and excitement of having a unique pet. People give them extra attention, and awe, but the reality of owning these animals involves very particular care. Pets that are unique are often exotic in nature which can mean finding a vet with specialization, feeding a very specific diet, and even creating climate controlled environments. The life expectancy for exotic or unique pets is often longer than that of a dog or cat. In the case of a tortoise, it’s ten times the average lifespan of a dog.
Any pet is a commitment to care for and protect. Their life is entirely dependent on you. Knowing what you are getting into as a pet owner is important for both you and the animal, so we strongly encourage anyone thinking about getting a new pet to do their research and never stop learning how to be the best caretaker possible.
Continue reading to learn about Norbert and his owner Amber.
“You have a tortoise! That’s so cool!”
From Amber:
“Norbert is very cool, but he’s also a small guy with big needs. I’m the first to admit that buying him online nearly 19 years ago was irresponsible of me (and the breeder). The learning curve for caring for a Hermann’s tortoise was quite steep and I stumbled.
Thankfully we made it through together. This chilly month of February marks 19 years together, which is longer than I was alive at that time. Norb lived with me in my college dorm, when I moved to New York City, and has spent his life with rescue dogs and cats. I am often asked if they get along and I think they do, you know, as long as they can run faster than Norb who is always desperately trying to catch up.
This modern-day dinosaur is cold-blooded and requires a temperature-controlled environment. Since he lives indoors, he also needs a daylight lamp. He can dig and climb like he was trained for it. His diet is also fairly specific as well and revolves around a variety of dark, leafy greens (no, lettuce does not count as it is mostly water), flowers, weeds, and a small amount of fruit. During my learning phase, I accidentally got him addicted to bananas. To this day he would probably trade me in for a banana.
If you’re considering becoming a tortoise parent, please search for adoptable tortoises from rescue groups. Petfinder is a great resource. Keep in mind, they will likely live to 90 years or older, so plan for them to be the neediest family heirloom in your estate.”
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