In response to your question all you have to do is google search Painted Turtle Care Sheet. One of the top five that come up should have everything you need to know. I suggest you find two care sheets and compare the two and use your best common knowledge and go with that. This site might have a care sheet as well. As far as a friend goes for your little buddy. Thats up to you. I always prefer pairs... Hope that helps ;} Jc