Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I read a post sometime in the past about someone asking how to properly hold a RES when removing from the tank. I can't find it or the answer so can anyone help out?

I currently have hatchlings and I usually hold them between my thumb and pointer finger, along the side of their shell (between front and rear paws). I thought I read that it was NOT the way to hold them. I am concerned, esp. as they get bigger.

this is how you hold the turtle you grab it by the sides in the tank and then you lay it flat on the palm of ur hand and with the other one over to secure it...

LOL, I'd like to see you hold a 12 inch monster turtle like that
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thats what the website said:|

ill get the website link...

This is fundamental...when picking your turtle up make sure you lift it by the side of its shell (avoiding the head) and place your palm flat under the bottom of the shell. Keep your other hand on top of the shell, holding securely, so that it will not fall and if it tries to escape, you have a firm grip.

http://members.shaw.ca/turtles/sense.htm
there take a look and he has big turtles too

Thanks. It seems like holding it from underneath is done for stability. I was worried that holding it from the sides was harmful in itself. I'll start training myself now. I'll have a few years before it gets that huge.

I don't think you would be hurting them however you picked them up, just some positions are less stressful than others. I have only handled mine about 3 times in the 3 years I have owned them, so I don't think it matters how I pick them up as long as they don't get dropped.
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