Sun’s Out, Shells Out! Your Guide to Tortoise Post-Hibernation Care
We’re just flipping our calendars to March, but we have already been hitting 84 degrees here in Tucson, AZ! As our Sonoran Desert warms up in March, that means tortoises are starting to stir from their winter slumber.
While it’s always a joy to see those sleepy faces emerging, this "wake-up" period is actually one of the most critical times for their health. After a long hibernation (brumation), tortoises’ immune systems are essentially "rebooting," and owners need to ensure a strong start to the 2026 season.
The Post-Hibernation Check-Up: What We Look For
When tortoises wake up, they aren't just hungry—they're vulnerable. During a standard 30-minute exam slot, Dr. Valdez, Dr. Hawkins, or myself will perform a comprehensive "post-winter" assessment:
Upper Respiratory Infections (URIs): It’s very common for tortoises to "catch a cold" during the winter months. We look for bubbles from the nose, labored breathing and puffy eyes.
Bladder Stones: These can develop or enlarge while your tortoise is sleeping and their metabolism is slowed. Catching these early via palpation or x-rays is much easier on the tortoise than dealing with a blockage later in the season.
Hydration & Nutrition Levels: We ensure their "fuel tank" is ready for the active months ahead.
Dr. Walter’s Tip: Taking just 30 minutes now ensures peace of mind until pre-hibernation exams in the Fall. It’s the best "insurance policy" for a long-lived desert companion.
Garden Prep: The "Spadefoot" Special
If you’re looking to refresh your tortoise’s enclosure, now is the perfect time to plant! You want to get tortoise appropriate grasses and native shrubs in the ground before your tortoise is fully active and decides to turn your new seedlings into an all-you-can-eat buffet.
We always love to plug our friends at Spadefoot Nursery. They are local experts in native flora and carry a fantastic selection of tortoise-safe plants. Planting now gives the roots a chance to settle before your shell-baby starts exploring their kingdom.
Ready to Schedule?
Don’t wait until you see a runny nose or lethargy. Let’s get your tortoise on the books for a quick wellness check so they can enjoy the sunshine safely.
Give us a call at Orange Grove Animal Hospital to grab one of our upcoming 30-minute slots with Dr. Valdez, Dr. Hawkins, or myself!
Call to book your Tortoise Spring Exam Today: 520.877.2626