Let me let you in on a secret; I'm a total "germophobe" when it comes to reptiles and birds, because I'm REALLY afraid of getting salmonella (I've heard that getting it is like torture for a day or two). Now, I know that with birds you can only get it if you EAT them raw, but I'm not taking any risks with my chicken, pepper. Back to the point of the thread... Do tortoises carry a lot of salmonella? I've already posted a thread about this, I know, but I'm still curious (but mostly really afraid). Are there any herpetologists out there who can tell me how to prevent getting it? The odds? Salmonella victims, what's it like? Risks? Maybe if its not as bad as it sounds I won't be as afraid... PLEASE don't exaggerate, it'll make me so scared that I might give up on herpetology in general (reptiles are my passion and I REALLY don't want to give up on my passion from fear). Anyway, back to the point (again)... I really appreciate and trust you guys, so... I guess what I'm trying to say is... Post away!! Long or short, I don't care, all posts are appreciated!