User:Kachina123/Red-eared slider

As pets, invasive species, and human infection risk[edit]

T. s. elegans Red-eared slider turtles are the world's most commonly traded reptile, due to their relatively low price, and usually low food price, small size, and easy maintenance. As with other turtles, tortoises, and box turtles, individuals that survive their first year or two can be expected to live generally around 30 years. They present an infection risk; particularly of Salmonella. Salmonellosis can occur in individuals who come in direct or indirect contact with salmonella, which is found in the feces of the turtle.

Infection risks and United States federal regulations on commercial distribution[edit]

Reptiles are asymptomatic (meaning they suffer no adverse side effects) carriers of bacteria of the genus Salmonella. This has given rise to justifiable concerns given the many instances of infection of humans caused by the handling of turtles, which has led to restrictions in the sale of red-eared sliders in the USA. A 1975 U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulation bans the sale (for general commercial and public use) of both turtle eggs and turtles with a carapace length less than 4 in (10 cm). This regulation comes under the Public Health Service Act, and is enforced by the FDA in cooperation with state and local health jurisdictions. The ban was enacted because of the public-health impact of turtle-associated salmonellosis. Turtles and turtle eggs found to be offered for sale in violation of this provision are subject to destruction in accordance with FDA procedures. A fine up to $1,001 and/or imprisonment for up to one year is the penalty for those who refuse to comply with a valid final demand for destruction of such turtles or their eggs. Many stores and flea markets still sell small turtles due to an exception in the FDA regulation that allows turtles under 4 in (10 cm) to be sold "for bona fide scientific, educational, or exhibition purposes, other than use as pets."

Cleanliness Practices when handling Red-eared Sliders

• Ensure to wash hands with soap and water after handling, feeding or cleaning the turtles water tank.
• Since children are mostly impacted by Salmonellosis, a guardian should assist or monitor the child to ensure they are effectively washing their hands.
• Refrain from kissing or putting the slider near face or mouth. The mouth is a portal of entry for Salmonella.
• Do not place the slider in areas where food is prepared, such as kitchen; or where people eat and drink.
• When cleaning tank and equipment, it is best to clean it outside of the kitchen, preferably outside of the house.
• After cleaning tank and equipment, contaminated areas should be disinfected to prevent the spread of Salmonella.

Certified Salmonella-free Turtle Claims

As efforts to limit the spread of salmonella, the US turtle-farming industry has put specific regulations and practices for turtle farming. These practices includes using a surface disinfectant wash and bactericidal solution through the pores of turtle eggs. In addition, once a year, turtle farms are required to have a facility and equipment audit as well as egg inspection. If Salmonella, was found on any of the eggs, selling of those eggs would be prohibited. Farmers who passed inspections sold those turtles as "Salmonella-free" turtles, falsely claiming that the turtles being sold were salmonella free. After more research, study's found that the surface disinfectant wash and bactericidal solution were effective with reducing the amount of salmonella germs but not completely eliminating it. In addition to this, usually turtles are shipped with many other turtles, in which salmonella can be passed onto "salmonella free" turtles. This false sense of security can prompt owners to not be as vigilant with cleanliness practices, therefore potentially leading to outbreaks.

Canadian Laws and Convictions

The Canadian laws prohibit the importation, exportation and interprovincial transportation of any animal or plant that is non-native to Canada without a permit. In 2014, a man named Dong, Yan from Windsor Ontario, attempted to illegally transport turtles wrapped in plastic and strapped to his legs at the Canadian-US border. Mr. Yan was convicted of the following; 24-month probation, fine of $3,500, and community service (50 hours). Mr. Yan was also not allowed to own any turtles and tortoises for 10 years and was required to inform the Environment and Climate Change Canada prior to travelling. In addition, Mr. Yan was required to compose a letter explaining his experiences while facing these specific convictions.