shell question

Question
I have 2 year old russian tortoise.  Her shell is starting to separate and curl up at the edge. What should I do?

Answer
Stephanie,

I don't know what you mean by her shell starting to separate.  That may need to be checked by a veterinarian...

The curling is most likely caused by poor nutrition.  It is too late to correct it but you may stop it from getting worse.  Please read the info on the following site:  

http://www.austinsturtlepage.com/Care/cs-russian.htm

Not only do turtles need good nutrition but they need a good UV light so that their body can actually use the nutrition.  I recommend T Rex's Active UV or Zoomed's Powersun.  It is important to change out the lightbulbs at least once every year - some say every six months.  

Please let me know if you have any questions at all about the diet information and I will answer you as soon as possible.  

Oh, and in the summer I pick dandelion greens from the yard (as long as you don't use pesticides or weed killer on your lawn) and my russian loves them.


-Amanda