Chances are you may have had a pet turtle when you were small, or at least knew a child who did. I have known several tiny turtle pet owners who were unaware of the deadly pet who was living under their roof with their children. So if you or someone you know has a small turtle living in one of their fish tanks, let them know, turtles can be harmful to their loved ones. It is surprising to learn that turtles have been illegal since 1975.
According to the FDA’s website and last updated on August 30, 2012 the Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM) is responsible for administering the provisions of the regulation that ban the sale of turtles with a carapace length of less than 4 inches. This regulation comes under the Public Health Service Act and is enforced by the FDA in cooperation with state and local health jurisdictions. The ban has been in effect in the U.S. since 1975 because of the public health impact of turtle-associated salmonellosis. (Source, FDA)
No parent wants their child to contract salmanella, so know the facts. Children often have weaker immunity towards airborne bacteria, which can be fatal if they contract the disease.
The truth about salmonella which turtles contain
1. ALL reptiles and amphibians could contain Salmonella.
2. What is Salmonella? Bacteria found in feces that can cause diarrhea illnesses in humans.
3. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), salmonellosis causes an estimated 1.4 million cases of foodborne illness and more than 400 deaths annually in the United States. *
4. While some people may not show any symptoms others may exhibit the following symptoms within 8 to 72 hours after being exposed to something that was contaminated:
- diarrhea
- abdominal cramps,
- chills,
- headache,
- nausea
- vomiting
Pet Turtles Cute But Contaminated with Salmonella an article provided by the FDA
* Sources for #3 and #4
I never knew that smaller turtles might be considered illegal in the US — guess that explains why they are all larger at the pet store.
We have one we found outside that the kids have had for a day now in a cage to watch, and we are releasing it later today. We never intended to keep it, just watch it for a day or two. And I have been very careful to make sure everyone washes their hands after touching the turtle.
Thanks for reading the article. My niece and nephews had a little turtle, it was so cute, but as I was doing research about their turtle I found this information. It surprised me. I’m glad that no one in your family became sick. Best wishes to you!