Tips for soaking RF

[Currin]

I would love some tips for soaking my RF! I've had him a few weeks now and have done it several times. He, however, just tries constantly to get out. I do use warm water. I just wonder why he never seems comfortable and it is a bit challenging. Thanks everyone!

 

[ZEROPILOT]

High sided tub.
I use a tall stainless steel sink and even my very large RF can't see over the sides.
Not being able to see through...or over the pan of water helps.
Are you using a clear pan of water?

 

[Currin]

Thank you. I should have added he is indeed in a high sided tub and cannot see over. He still never relents in trying to climb out

 

[ZEROPILOT]

Try slightly warmer water.​

Mine often fall asleep in there.
Warm enough that it is not hot when you place your hand in there.

 

[Currin]

I definitely will try that tomorrow! Thank you

 

[christinaland128]

Mine have open access to soak whenever and I noticed they do it in the afternoon.

But when I used the large soak tub, I'd feed them right after and I noticed they associate soaking with eating so they'd start stomping around in anticipation of food.

So I started soaking them a little bit earlier and then feeding them later in the day. When I did that they seemed more relaxed and sat in the tub better. Perhaps it's because they didn't associate soaking with eating right after.

 

[ZEROPILOT]

They will eventually get used to it.

 

[ZEROPILOT]

Right now all of mine live outdoors and they spend at least part of the day soaking in pools by choice.

 

[Currin]

Thanks guys! Mine does have access to his own soaking area constantly, but I have never seen him do it. At least not in the few weeks I've had him! I suppose you are right and he will get used to it.

 

[naturalman91]

Thanks guys! Mine does have access to his own soaking area constantly, but I have never seen him do it. At least not in the few weeks I've had him! I suppose you are right and he will get used to it.

mine tries to escape to it's not a bad thing it actually stimulates the bowels

 

[Currin]

Good to know!!!!! Lol!

 

[DutchieAmanda]

Mine also tries to climb out. I noticed he gets calmer when I'm not standing next to him and looking at him (maybe a bit shy?).

I also sometimes hand feed him some greens to give a positive vibe to the soaking, hoping he'll connect the two and stay calmer.

Also: measure your water temps. What is warm for us (40C) could already be really hot for your tort...

 

[Currin]

I will definitely do that and try giving him some fruit or something while he's in there, thank you!