Kush is an adoptable medium adult male red-eared slider currently spending his days at the Loving Companions Animal Rescue Inc. in North Pole, Alaska.
"We have 2 turtles, male and female, both in very good condition and well cared for," the animal rescue wrote on PetFinder. "The family had to give them up because they are moving for health reasons and could not take them. They are available either together or separate, with or without the tank. If you are interested, please contact us at 488-0516."
Red-eared sliders, also known as red-eared terrapins, are one of the most common turtles sold in pet stores, according to Reptile Magazine, and only sliders with a minimum of a 4-inch carapace are allowed to be sold. These diurnal omnivores can live 20-50 years and grow up to 12 inches long, so despite their pet shop/dime store reputation, proper care is required. Diet, amount of water, a clean tank and temperature are very important to the comfort and health of the red-eared slider.
"Red-eared sliders are strong swimmers and will spend a majority of their time in the water," according to Reptile Magazine. "They bask a lot, too, and during warm, sunny days, wild red-ears love to stack on top of each other while doing so. The slightest movement or sound will send them sliding off their rocks or logs and back into the water-this, coupled with the red ear mark on both sides of their heads, gives them their common name. Pet red-eared sliders can be very personable and will often swim up to you, begging for food."
If you're worried about turtles and salmonella, fear not. These semi-aquatic turtles are just one reptile that can have or contract salmonella, according to About. Proper hygiene - like handwashing - can keep your family safe.
If you adopt Kush, or another HNGN featured rescue pet, be sure to tell us your story! Send photos and anecdotes to k.aquilina@hngn.com. We love happy endings and you and your pet could be featured on Headlines and Global News' Pets Happy Zone!
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