Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling turtles or anything in their environment. Avoid touching your face, especially your mouth, before washing your hands.
If you have young children or individuals with compromised immune systems, it's essential to supervise their interactions with turtles closely. Ensure they wash their hands after any contact with the turtle or its habitat.
Use separate cleaning supplies for the turtle's habitat, and do not use them for anything else in your home. This includes scrub brushes, buckets, and towels.
Clean and disinfect the turtle's enclosure regularly. Remove uneaten food, feces, and any contaminated substrate. Disinfect surfaces with a reptile-safe disinfectant.
Do not use your kitchen sink to clean or handle turtle-related items. Use a designated sink or area that is separate from where you prepare food.
Teach children the importance of proper hand hygiene after handling turtles or being near their habitat. Discourage them from putting their hands or objects that have been in contact with the turtle into their mouths.
Some species of turtles are more prone to carry Salmonella than others. Consider choosing a turtle species that is known to have lower Salmonella prevalence, and obtain your turtle from a reputable source.
Schedule regular check-ups with a reptile-savvy veterinarian for your turtle. This can help ensure that your turtle is healthy and less likely to carry infectious agents.