Take good care of your pet

Over half of vets saw tortoises with weight loss or anorexia following their last hibernation, says the British Veterinary Association (BVA). So the BVA has teamed up with the British Veterinary Zoological Society (BVZS) and British Small Animal Veterinary Association (BSAVA) to make sure hibernating pets have a healthy rest this winter. With modern advice having moved away from the traditional idea of placing your tortoise in a shoebox in the attic, many vets believed these health problems stemmed from the way the tortoise was hibernated. BVA president Gudrun Ravetz said: “We have a far greater knowledge now of a tortoise’s health and welfare needs, however it’s possible that those who have had tortoises for decades may not be aware of the new practices.” Although the weather is getting colder, vets advise owners to delay tortoise hibernation until November or December by keeping their pet warm using heat lamps to avoid an overlong hibernation that can result in depletion of energy stores, dehydration and accumulation of toxins. The exact length of hibernation will vary depending on the tortoise’s life stage, health and size. To ensure good hibernation husbandry, the three organisations have compiled some tips to make sure your tortoise stays healthy whilst having the best possible winter rest.

Find out what tips are at https://www.bva.co.uk/news