Reptile & Amphibian Forums

hey all

today when i let my turtle play around and absorb some sunlight outside - my small male turtle decided he would jump into the pool, so he went swimming, and seems to be very happy (swimming around and around) and soon - the female larger turtle went in after him and she seems happy.

well, i ended up having to jump into the pool to get them out, they swam suprising fast!

but, is it bad for them to swim in my pool? could it done any damage to them? is it ok to put them into the pool again and let them swim? (they seem so happy)

alan

Hi --

Not a good idea. The chemicals and high chlorine in the water are irritants to your turtles.

Maybe getting them a kiddie pool of their own would give them a chance to stretch their legs a bit in water with more surface space. Just shade a spot so they can thermoregulate. And if you get the kind with the cheesy "slide" that's shaped on one side they can use that to climb up it and bask. Might need to attach something on the slide so there's traction to climb up...maybe one of those textured sink mats for doing dishes stuck on with aquarium sillicon. That worked well for me when I made my own basking platform with lucite and I needed to give it traction.

One last thought...you can just add regular tap/well water, and add a touch of chlorine remover if needed...just like tank water

alright - i guess time for me to save up for a kiddie pool. built a fence around it - then lots of dirt.

Actually you be surprised how little chlorine (compared to what is in municipal drinking water) is reccomended for pools. Granted, some people do use more. In the long run its probably not good but its not likely to be enough chlorine to hurt a turtle right away.
The real issue is the danger a turtle poses to you by swimming in water in which you immerse yourself. again the chlorine may help you here but ther eis stillt he risk of disease spread.

A kiddie pool or outdoor pond is a great idea. Just don't leave them alone unless you are SURE there are nor any predators about.

alright - ill let them swim there once in a while. they jsut seem so happy!