Aquatic turtles including red-eared sliders are among the most common reptile pets but face severe welfare problems from inadequate housing, nutrition, and veterinary care.
Aquatic turtles kept in small tanks without UV-B lighting, proper filtration, and basking areas develop metabolic bone disease, respiratory infections, and shell deformities. The softshell or pyramided shell of calcium-deficient turtles causes chronic pain and immune compromise. Many turtles are released into ponds when they outgrow tanks, creating invasive species problems and dooming the released animals, as pet-reared turtles lack survival skills. The 20-40 year lifespan of turtles means welfare compromises in early housing affect animals for decades.