Russian Tortoise Noise

Question
I was given a russian tortoise as a gift and we've been together for about a month now. This is my first experience with a tortoise, and things seem to be going well so far, two thing are troubling me though. When he is surprised or scared, and he pulls his head in, he makes a soft hissing kind of noise - is that normal for tortoises to make? He does have sand on the bottom of his habitat, which he often digs into, and I'm worried that the noise might be sand scrapping him. Also, sometimes his whole body kind of heaves - his legs, his head all kind of bob gently up and down with each breath, is that possibly a sign of a respitory problem?

I've searched and searched online and haven't found much information about russian tortoises besides breeding or hibernating them. No pet store associates I speak to are helpful either,  and I've tried serveral places. He seems healthy in every other respect, he eats well, is active and energetic. Do you think I should visit a vet over these issues, or am I being a hypochondriac?

Answer
1. Soft hiss when pulling in is normal- there is not a lot of room left in the shell for air in the lungs, so it is pressed out. As long as the hiss is soft with no gurgling or bubbling it is not a concern.

2. A little hiss like this MIGHT be a warning sign of obesity, however. As long as it can totally hide in the shell, it is OK. As soon as it cannot fully pull in it is gaining too much weight.

3. The sand is not really a problem, but also not necessarily the best substrate. Check out the listed website for other ideas.

4. Most tortoises gently 'bob' while breathing, at least sometimes. Unless the breathing becomes noisy, or the walk seems impaired, it is no big deal either.

Try http://www.russiantortoise.org for more info on these guys.