Salmonella

At Tai Wai Small Animal and Exotics Hospital we understand the bond pet owners feel to their tortoises, but if you are going to cuddle them there are a few precautions you must take!

It is important to remember that some animals may carry diseases which could make you significantly ill.  In the case of reptiles it is the bacteria Salmonella which has the most potential to cause serious problems.

The Salmonella bacterium is a normal inhabitant of the gut of reptiles and does not cause disease in its host. It can however cause serious disease, including severe gastro-enteritis in other animals including humans.

To reduce the risk of disease we recommend basic hygiene precautions are taken:

Always wash your hands after handling your tortoise or its enclosure.

Use an antibacterial soap preparation (and / or alcohol gel preparation).

Do not kiss your pet tortoise (no matter how gorgeous they may be).

When washing the cage use an appropriate disinfectant solution – 10% bleach can be used – but please rinse very well.

Wear gloves when handling faeces.

Supervise any children.  They may not follow such precautions, and may be at higher risk of disease.

We do not advise a tortoise as a pet for children under the age of 5 years old.

Older children must be supervised during any handling and basic hygiene practiced afterwards.

Please keep your tortoise away from any food preparation areas. For example do not keep your tortoise in the kitchen or allow it to walk around on any surfaces in the kitchen