noahthekestrel submitted to thewhimsyturtle:
Hey Kirby, this is A'Tuin the small, who is not particularly impressed with his new dad’s attempts to capture his beauty in digital. Some people say he’s a red eared slider, some say painted, but what matters is that he’s happy right? Do you have any suggestions for helping him adjust to his new home?
Hello, friend A'Tuin! You are such a cutie patootie! Look at your wee toes and that beautiful shell! You may not realize it yet, but you’re going to be a huge star in your new home in no time!
We’re sure your new dad has made you a wonderful comfy tank to live in with everything you need. (We think you look more like a slider, but you’re right, who cares! Those two species have basically the same care, so as long as you’re happy!) You probably still think he’s scary since he’s so much bigger than you, but you’ll realize over time that he is the source of your noms and maybe even cuddles! We recommend your dad not handle you much for the first few weeks, and instead just get you used to him feeding you and watching you. Slow and steady is the turtle way! Having a set routine and talking to you in happy tones will also help you feel safe faster. Once you stop running away every time your dad comes over, he can try feeding you by hand, and from there maybe you’ll even be okay with him picking you up! That last step will take awhile because as a turtle, you’re naturally shyer outside of water than landlubbers like me. But with lots of patience and love, your dad is going to become your favorite human ever!