The state of Tennessee has banned turtles. Pet turtles, that is.
Saying that because turtles can pull their heads and legs into their shells, it's a moist enviroment that can breed bacteria growth and can harbor salmonella. Which, as we know, can be deadly.
"...For that reason, the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency will not issue permits for pet stores to sell turtles or for people to own turtles. That means it's illegal to keep them as pets in the state - regardless of whether people find them in their front yard or bring them back as souvenirs from vacation."
Before we go any further - full disclosure: I have a turtle. Bless his heart...his name is Zeke. I "inherited" him (if you will) after breaking up with a boyfriend many years ago. Honestly, I never would have picked a turtle as a pet...especially an aquatic one....but lo' and behold, there he is in my living room. I'm not a crazy "turtle mom" or anything, but I love him all the same - he's a lving creature with whom I've shared the last 18 or so years. Yeah, turtles live a long freaking time. ANYWAY - that out of the way....is it just me, or is this a weird thing to outlaw? It's so SPECIFIC. Turtles.
According to the CDC - there are several pets they consider "risky" because of the potential for salmonella.
"Many Salmonella infections occur in people who have contact with certain types of animals -- or "risky" pets. These include reptiles (turtles, snakes, and lizards), amphibians (frogs and toads), and poultry (chicks, chickens, ducks ducklings, geese, turkeys). Also, pocket pets (guinea pigs and rodents like hamsters), dogs, cats, birds (including pet and wild birds), horses, and farm animals (goats, calves, sheep) can pass Salmonella to people. It is important to know that these animals can carry Salmonella germs and still appear healthy and clean. Additionally, reptiles and amphibians that live in tanks or aquariums can contaminate the water with Salmonella, which can lead to illness in people. You should also know that some pet products, like pet foods and treats, can be contaminated with Salmonella and other germs. Pet food and treats might include dry dog or cat food, dog biscuits, pig ears, beef hooves, and rodents used to feed reptiles including frozen feeder rodents."
Okay, seriously, almost all of us are touching any or all of those things all the time!
And what about FOOD? Meat not properly handled can contain salmonella - and it doesn't even have to sit in your fridge for a million years for it to go bad, it can come from a factory that way. Even lettuce and spinach can harbor disease if the water supply isn't clean.
I'm not trying to say turtles are without risk, of course thy are not. But honestly, why is Tennessee just picking on turtles? Why the turtle hate, Tennessee?
Click the pic below for the full story - then answer our poll question.
They say they won't prosecute people who already own turtles.
What do you think??
*****start poll*****
This is a picture of Zeke I took the other day. I was watching the Olympic swimming competition when I caught him doing his best Michael Phelps impersonation. Look at that determination in his eyes. He could teach Phelps a thing or two....
