Hibernation rocky start

[vikki]

I think when i am brave enough i will have to go with the fridge method but having read on another forum about a very experienced keeper who has always hibernated naturally but due to weather conditions decided to use fridge method for the first time and has lost two much cherished torts despite fridge being monitored i am still undecided

[Jan W]

Originally Posted by Ozric Jonathan

I know lots of keepers think the fridge idea is just 'not right' and I understand that. But the control the keeper can have can be reassuring to some - well me anyway!

Also the keeper can check on the weight etc so easily. And yes I would know if the tortoise has peed as well.

Sorry for my ignorance, but can you explain the significance of peeing during hibernation.

Thank you!
Jan

[CherryBrandy]

Originally Posted by Jan W

Sorry for my ignorance, but can you explain the significance of peeing during hibernation.

Thank you!
Jan

activity, as in they could be setting off the chemical reaction to waking and dehydration also. Though saying that tortoise should empty their bladders before hibernation - that's more difficult than emptying food.

Don't forget also sat in acrid acid - ammonia can cut through shells. Not even shell rot - it can completely erode a shell - like bleach to a lettuce leaf nasty. CB

[Ozric Jonathan]

CB has given a more full answer. I was just thinking dehydration. Hibernation guides all say to get the tortoise up if it pees.

[CherryBrandy]

Originally Posted by Ozric Jonathan

I know lots of keepers think the fridge idea is just 'not right' and I understand that. But the control the keeper can have can be reassuring to some - well me anyway!

Also the keeper can check on the weight etc so easily. And yes I would know if the tortoise has peed as well.

it sustainability isn't it Jonathan. if a fridge meets the requirements of a successful hibernation then I think that could be ideal. I must admit I would always hibernate but do find any hibernation concerning, but that is personally me as there are risks to both if your tortoise is unwell. its not usually the climate that kills them its an unwell tortoise and sometimes you just can account for that. ie old age, low immune, viruses etc...be like saying if you caught a cold because you went out without a vest.

[Jan W]

Originally Posted by CherryBrandy

activity, as in they could be setting off the chemical reaction to waking and dehydration also. Though saying that tortoise should empty their bladders before hibernation - that's more difficult than emptying food.

Don't forget also sat in acrid acid - ammonia can cut through shells. Not even shell rot - it can completely erode a shell - like bleach to a lettuce leaf nasty. CB

Thank you!