10 things to think about before getting a tortoise

[@brookegillespie-trout]

He is so well taken care of, and that's amazing! The fact that your family changed your back yard to adjust to his needs is such a blessing to him. Not many animals receive that kind of care and love. You do such a great job with him, and I love your videos. They really make me smile!

[@caitlinandtiptoe]

we are so so lucky to have him :)

[@williammouri1096]

So often kids plead for certain pets only to lose interest quite quickly. It's fantastic that your love for Tiptoe only grows over time.

[@johnshaffer3405]

Tortoises are the kind of pets parents get when they want to pass something extra on to one of their kids when they get older and have kids of their own.

[@CITADEL5]

From what I can see you do not really have a tortoise as a pet. Tiptoe simply maintains a large domestic staff. It is an absolutely beautiful animal! You folks and the tortoise have a great day.

[@floydreed8777]

He’s not spoiled. He’s well loved

[@mymobile5014]

I never thought with the advent of the internet I'd be watching a giant tortoise every week! lol Love these videos x

[@BobWwwaa]

Tiptoe is so lucky to have a mom like you who cares and loves him so much👍🌹👨🏻‍🦳🌹👍

[@lauraansara5066]

You are a great ambassador for tortoise!

[@annamariamason5532]

He's absolutely gorgeous

[@jimw.4161]

Your video is a perfect example of the old adage: you don't own your animal; your animal owns you. I commend you for your commitment and diligence in the care you provide for this big fella. He is a lucky boy indeed. I hope people take seriously your excellent advice and think about the long term consequences of owning such an exotic animal. Wonderful explanation!

[@caitlinandtiptoe]

[@randsandaker7258]

Tip toe and you Caitlin make my day. Thank you for educating ppl. So many pets needing homes. You are the best!❤

[@lornadesmarais-zo4pr]

Sulcata’s love to dig. Most people have no clue about their environment. Mr. T climbs up his ramp to be able to keep an eye on us.

[@caitlinandtiptoe]

Yes!! Idk how I forgot to mention this. Tiptoe somehow never dug but yes!!!

[@lornadesmarais-zo4pr]

@@caitlinandtiptoe we are in a cold climate here in Ontario, Canada but Mr. T’s breeder told us that Sulcata tortoises are capable of burrowing a 30 foot long tunnel. Mr. T does dig in his enclosure in the house (he scratches the wood) but when outside, his enclosure is lined with chicken wire. He is still a baby at 3 1/2 years old. He weighs about 20 lbs

[@donnaboyle669]

What a wonderful video,so informative. It’s obvious that you love him so much. He can want for nothing. With your kind heart and knowledge when and if you have children they will come love and care for him just as you did when you were young. Have a sunshine and butterflies weekend.

[@gski201]

Most likely her grandchildren will be caring for Mr. Toe too...

[@tanyaboland1838]

Tiptoe is so blessed to have you as his mother!! Hope anyone seeing the videos realizes the time and commitment it takes to take care of a, tortoise before purchasing one. Thank you for sharing the videos of you and Tiptoe, it is so sweet seeing the love between you and him!! Hope more people take after you and treat there animals with love, respect, care and companionship.

[@twoturtletom]

Great video Caitlin! Lots of good tips and considerations. We see so many people here in the Midwest work with Sulcatas who just can’t handle them when they get get large.

[@michaellynch9553]

Hello from South Africa, The videos and shorts content is always entertaining, inspirational and educational, thank you for sharing Tiptoe with the world.

[@caitlinandtiptoe]

[@ronc7475]

TipToe says: "This is Caitlin, my 125lb human."

[@caitlinandtiptoe]

hahahah literally

[@heidigib01]

I’m so impressed with your commitment to tiptoe. You are a fine example to anyone getting really any pet. I love that you put this out as I know people are often tempted to get a pet without considering long term commitment. Thankyou for sharing tiptoe and your life with him.

[@ericbullock7355]

These videos are amazing. I never thought I could appreciate a tortoise this much. He has so much character! You can tell that Caitlin and tiptoe grew up together. They both have the same kind of sweetness as if they are brother and sister. Good job Caitlin and happiness to you both!

[@bandmphillip4437]

Super loving family..Tip Toe is a wonderful family member with a fantastic mom. 😊😊😊

[@warrenvinansky4771]

2" blue board (styrofoam) between wall studs before closing in walls with plywood of new Tiptoe house ,, and in floor will help keep heat in and cold out for sweet Tiptoe 🏠🐢💕

[@melindaschuerfranz3070]

He is a lot of work but I enjoy every minute you share. ❤

[@carolnolan9439]

I have two desert tortoises Pixie is 15 years old and ET her son is four years old. They are like dogs. Knock at patio door and come in house and run down hallway to sleep under my bed when they get too hot in Summer here in desert.

[@camc5483]

He's a generational pet. An heirloom. You'll have to will him to your offspring. He's too cute.

[@erichastings-ro7vs]

I've seen a lot of turtles on KZbin but none like tiptoe. very therapeutic I think you're helping a lot of people. To see somebody love what they're doing like you do is great. Wish you and tip the best.

[@caitlinandtiptoe]

thank you so much, just put the biggest smile on our face!!

[@3LBane1974]

Awesome video. One day, I would love to see Nelson Treehouse Masters build Tiptoe a spot, with stairs, ramps, and a sweet heated pool.

[@Skaizon]

Yeah, I have ocadia sinensis and I didn't expect him. I was aiming for a spotted or a Chinese turtle, but I wouldn't trade my Pręguś (name) for any other. I bought him with a defect in the form of a fungal infection of the armor, but we fight it bravely. Before introducing the turtle, I first acquired the necessary knowledge about its conditions and nutrition. It is a young turtle, about 2 years old and very shy, but it seems that we have some contact with each other.

[@deborahjames8251]

Tiptoe is loved so much

[@cliffordnewell2445]

I love Tiptoe's sense of humor

[@censorshipsucks9493]

He goes up to her even when she's now holding a hibiscus. Tiptoe loves her. Of course some day a lucky man will have to ask Tiptoe for her hand.

[@lindaphillips2140]

What a sweet thought. Never crossed my mind before but you have a great idea.

[@keithmontgomery8242]

You have beautiful baby!

[@keithmontgomery8242]

It’s impossible not to love ❤️ tiptoe

[@fuzzymelon1261]

you should also check the species of the tortoise and make 100% sure its the one you want. not all tortoises get as big as tip toe (3rd largest species in the world), but even the smallest ones need a large amount of space for their size. i want a tortoise, but something like a red foot or a russian tortoise. i love sulcattas, but i would only take one in if it was an old rescue if i have the resources.

[@caitlinandtiptoe]

yes!!!! thank you

[@paulhill1379]

Great video Caitlin and so true about looking after a animal like Tiptoe and you all do a great job he looks so happy and loving life.

[@debslinker8718]

I have learned so much from you and I love watching you and I love Tip-toe ❤❤❤

[@paulastenavage1785]

Hi Caitlin. You proved a very valid point in this video because research is the key to owning a tortoise and the necessary requirements in doing so.

[@warrenvinansky4771]

Please stay warm Tiptoe 🏠🐢💕

[@RJones-tn5vg]

I know darn well that I'm not able to take care of a tortoise, but I am so glad you share Tiptoe with us. He's so handsome and fun to watch.

[@karbear26]

You also have to have space indoors if you don’t live in a warm climate! I live in the Chicagoland area and he would die if he had to live outside during our freezing winter! I would have to convert the whole basement for him! I think he’s really neat but don’t have the space for him!

[@caitlinandtiptoe]

Yes so true!! They neeeed their warmth

[@kelleyrancher]

I am near Chicago and have a Taurus about the size of tiptoe we have two acres so he has plenty of room outside but in the winter yes we talked you were talking about the basement I have modified my basement he has a whole basement for winter time

[@Terminator2310]

Excellent advice Caitlin, you are such a lovely caring Mom.

[@warrenvinansky4771]

Definitely more than a lifetime to think about. Tiptoe is lucky to have a life with Caitlin, caring ,loving, smart, her guidelines and experience should be heard if you want a Tiptoe some day.......💕🐢🐢🐢🐢🐢🐢🐢🐢...........

[@caitlinandtiptoe]

[@warrenvinansky4771]

3>🐢💕👱‍♀️💕

[@warrenvinansky4771]

[@carmenHernandez-jg1kk]

Caitlyn you are so amazing and caring. Tiptoe is so lucky to have you and your mom as owners . Thanks so much for all the info. Sending blessings always from Michigan!!!🐢❤❤

[@maggieekane7845]

All child care requires home/house care! Impossible to ignore children mess. A healthy happy child takes and makes a certain amount of mess throughout the day. So it takes a parent a certain amount of time cleaning up in a normal day. Therefore, any child, especially a special needs child, like Tiptoe, may require a special amount and need of extra time and some unique challenges to complete a household tasks. I think Tiptoe has trained his “humans” very well. His needs are well understood and arranged. He is a global character who is respected and loved by thousands of people who will make sure he is cared for for all his life. He is a special being that has a fan base that will make sure he is cared for! Always!! ❤️❤️🐢❤️❤️

[@sharonott7513]

That was very interesting. Thanks for sharing. Have a great day, Tiptoe.

[@Dtothe1000th]

A lifetime of patience commitment and love❤🐢❤😊

[@patmalone4861]

Thank you for sharing this

[@tresacombe2154]

I love the term “shell babies”… so cute. I refer to my dog as my fur baby, and I’m sure there are lots of terms of endearments for other animal species. scale babies? feather babies? Now I need a list 😂😂😂

[@greatgentre]

Thanks!

[@ecachuh]

Great video, I really wish that the pet stores would stop selling them. I think they should only be adopted through licensed breeders. Also the potential owner should be approved. Like they would have to apply! It's so sad all of the tortoises that have been neglected. We have a rescue and are adopting another small rescue. People can adopt instead of buying a new one.

[@pegedey1291]

So good that you put the real deal info out to people! Well done! 🎉❤

[@Miss_Sophia19]

I got a Russian tortoise as u can see on my pfp but I love them to much they are such good pets and so nice

[@Phaedrus-th7bi]

Your videos of you and Tiptoe bring me great joy. (Just saying........) Thank You.

[@caitlinandtiptoe]

[@kristenacosta2911]

I used Google to research dog breeds, breeders, all the things......when I was in the market to get a dog. Now her name is Lilly. My spoiled 14yo black tri mini Aussie. My shadow. My ride or die. Best pet I've had & I got her at the perfect time of my life. Once she's passed, I will not be getting another dog. Maybe ever again. Lol. Cats are easier. Lol.

[@chucklana161]

It's Mr. T! He's such a cutie

[@danzig3764]

Just got one a few days ago, I felt guilty just getting one. I was thinking of getting a second one to keep it company, but I can see one can be a handful.

[@evac.705]

I think this was great information, just like tortoises, birds live a long life! Luckily in Tiptoes life, he is living his best life!❤👍💕🐢

[@robreber9355]

I think Tiptoe was trying to tell you he wanted to go for a walk with you. He is such an amazing 🐢. God Bless you and your family for taking such amazing care of Tiptoe. Take care of yourselves as well and have fun. You deserve it.

[@williamcooper2368]

We love TIPTOE ❤️

[@Elden_Jva]

Best! 🩵🐢

[@rosepalucacos8889]

wow, you did your research-I couldn't doit! Best Mom Ever!!!!!!!!!!!!!💓💓💓💓

[@marthahines1979]

Such important information! Thanks for sharing this! You are the best!

[@susanreed8186]

❤can see you love him so much❤

[@kristytriggs7271]

Aww I love him ,,, he has such a great owner and family 😊enjoy your videos so much!!! Thank you and thanks for this info

[@caitlinandtiptoe]

[@mzenlighten]

Look at that big smile in the thumbnail! ❤u Tip

[@katharper655]

Thank you for the information out there. My family and I have turned our 11/2 acre back yard and solarium into a sanctuary and home for rescued scalies and shell babies. All but my iguana, MAXXIMUS and chameleon Bob are rescues..and unless and until a dedicated adoptive owner is found, it is their Forever Home. Thank you for clearly describing the "PARENTING DEMANDS" for tortoises etc. SINCERE GRATITUDE, KATARINA

[@velkynkarma6804]

Can't stress the vet piece enough. Your local vet will almost never have the capacity to handle exotic animals like reptiles, inverts or birds. It's super important to find someone who can handle the species that you have, and to budget for a higher than usual cost AND the cost of gas and time for the trip. One I would also add is, familiarize yourself with your pet's specific body language and signs of illness, stress or pain. Reptiles (including tortoises) do not react the same way mammals (like cats and dogs) do, and they tend to keep their pain hidden. They can have very different kinds of illnesses. A tortoise can't catch rabies, for example, but could get shell pyramiding if the care was incorrect. Many things that look "cute" on cats and dogs can be signs of stress or defensiveness in reptiles. It's super important to research ahead of time so you know your species of choice, instead of assuming an animal is happy because it's doing something similar to a cat or a dog.

[@caitlinandtiptoe]

yes!! Body language is so huge. Reptiles love to hide their illnesses too

[@maggieekane7845]

Thank you for such an important, detailed list of items needed for being prepared for an exotic like tortoises. Your pointers are so important for all animals and human families too! ❤️🐢❤️☮️💟

[@debpettit8651]

I would never get one as I would not be able to commit but I can commit to watching your videos of tiptoe! ❤

[@Maaden84]

A tortoise would absolutely outlive me 🐢 and for that reason, Im out ♥

[@CARDINAL701]

Happy Halloween Tiptoe!!!!

[@chrisolson3240]

Well detailed Katlin.

[@cuteduckdontlie4636]

07:08 to 09:40 speed the video you will see Tiptoe 🐢 crossing around ☺️. Hopefully in future sooner you will build your family 🙏🏻 and please take Tiptoe with you. When you meet your Prince the first requirement should be “Do you like turtles ?! I mean a big turtle ?” If he says no… Run Run Runnnn Cathleen (Sorry if I wrote you name wrong). The guy must love tiptoe otherwise…next ! 😂 😂 The one who should fall in love with you MUST love tiptoe too. 😊 I wish the same to find a gentleman who loves animals specially ducks 🦆 chickens 🐓 goats 🐐 and 🐮 because I dream to build a small Ranch and live together have a beautiful garden and have a crazy Wiener dog that I will name I Thunderstorm Nexus X 😂

[@pamasturias6365]

Thank you for all the great info! Love you guys!❤

[@kathieharine5982]

Good advice!!!!

[@DaveKennedy-z9t]

Great video!!!!!! Thank you so much++++

[@19irving]

Really great points. Remember, these apply to ANY type pet ownership. But I'd like to add a few: does the pet fit in with the household? Is everyone feeling comfortable and safe with it? Number two: affordability. Can you afford the living space, vet care, food, etc. That an animal requires? And, if you are renting, what are the rules involving various pets? I was a shelter volunteer for several years and saw these issues arise too many times.

[@caitlinandtiptoe]

all so true!! thank you :)

[@kelleyrancher]

P hi Caitlin I live in the North near Chicago I don't know Michaela comes inside in the winter time so you have to consider he needs a heat light inside yes he does for Basking during the day and then I bought a heat emitter know these things all take more electricity in the winter

[@goldenvalleylady]

Hi tiptoe and catlin thank you 🎉🎉🎉🎉.

[@artburgos7686]

We Love you guys.🥰.Happy Halloween.🎃

[@vernek465]

Hi… I don’t live too far from a city but where I live, there are wild animals everywhere. I have a 1/4 acre lot that is completely fenced in with open land all around. As much I try to close things in, it is very porous to every type of animals, mostly at night. There are coyotes, bobcats, raccoons, skunks, squirrels, turkeys, foxes, mountain lions… as well as hawks, vultures & owls overhead. These animals live in the mountains but make their way down for visits at nights. I know it’s not safe for small house pets to roam outdoors. Do you think a tortoise could live safely in such an environment?

[@vickieforner7414]

Just commenting to help your channel..love me some TipToe❤

[@caitlinandtiptoe]

thank you!!

[@amihan99]

They live to be 150 years old. Amazing long life

[@chastityhartman9044]

❤❤❤❤ tiptoe knows you you care of him. Sinces he was baby God blessings never seen turtle 🐢 🙏 ❤ weigh 175 lbs wow. Amazing 👏 ❤🎉🎉😊

[@elsiefarha]

I have a question how do you take tiptoe on a walk I am planning to get a tortoise probably a sulcata so when he or she gets big haw do you do it

[@sciencebunny]

That wall crawl 🤯😨😵‍💫

[@caitlinandtiptoe]

he was literally standing!!! he's wild sometimes

[@Blitznstitch2]

That tortoise would do all in Texas summers

[@d012k-n5t]

I have one my self, and I found it relatedal. And mine is a Russian, not a silcata, but... still....

[@benvolio15]

Maybe this has been asked before, but how'd you get him to smile for the thumbnail? 😃

[@larrystevens2164]

Hello Caitnil besides fruit and vegetables do you ever give him anything else

[@caitlinandtiptoe]

he loves flowers!! (roses and hibiscus)

[@Bond8789]

T investigating things in the backround. XD

[@fitformojo]

I like this but you can add wheels on your transport cage and build a removable foldable ramp like the one for dogs just incase you are alone and you need to get your animal out. It will hurt to know that you left your baby behind because you couldn't lift him

[@Phaedrus-th7bi]

Does Tiptoe have any "friend Tortoises" that visit with him? Is he "lonely" for same-species contact?

[@caitlinandtiptoe]

he has yet to meet another tortoise but one day!! They are solitary animals so he doesn't neeeed the contact/they tend to get aggressive with one another

[@keithbates598]

❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@adventuresingoatfarming6754]

As for Tip Toe’s new home , may I make a suggestion. A collaboration with fellow KZbinr Xyla Foxlin and yourself would be an awesome KZbin videos. She being an engineer- maker and Tip Toe 🐢 being a superstar . Plus she lives not far from you. Just a suggestion ❤U 🐢

[@dannymoore2534]

your so beautiful caitlin

[@caitlinandtiptoe]

[@safirasutarto2346]

As a person living in an apartment, it feels kinda disappointing knowing that they're not the best pets to keep. 😭

[@tonyac2416]

Yeah I've wanted a Turtle for a while but I have decided against it as i have no time or desire for the time commitment both daily and long term. It makes me sad that people don't consider that and then just abandon those animals. 😢

[@caitlinandtiptoe]

Tiptoe needs as many aunties/uncles as he can get!!

[@tonyac2416]

@@caitlinandtiptoe ❤️

[@eltonsalvador7620]

you have an adult teen running around, can be really exhausting, but it's worth it

[@squareswing]

If anyone in Southern California is thinking about adoption of a full grown tortoise, mine is coming close to out-living me. He is a rescue from animal control and would hate to have him going back. Same kind of tortoise maybe larger. Ask for "Tank".

[@2Ryled]

He needs some party lights in his back yard..

[@caitlinandtiptoe]

you're right

[@kelleyrancher]

If you look closely at his house he has some around the top of his house where the gutters would be where the roof line ends

[@thomasthornton5737]

😀👍👍👍❤

[@eevee_themeanie5883]

🐢🐢🐢🐢🐢🐢🐢🐢🐢🐢🐢🐢

[@PROFF420]

Does tiptoe know his name if you call him

[@joeb9849]

It's too bad he can't dig himself a burrow he would be a lot better protected from the elements. All things being considered he was really lucky to be took home by you guys.