Handling
I was told at the shop that you are not really supposed to handle terrapins, and I am sure that is the case, however there are many animals that we shouldn‘t handle that are handled everyday. The only logical reasons I can think of is for the turtle, so it does not get stressed, and for you, to prevent passing salmonella. My sister and I used to handle the terrapins for two minutes every other day. Slowly keeping them out for longer, although one is now OK with this little arrangement, the other isn’t keen, however, it takes time to gain trust. I think its important to just go slow, don’t disturb them while they are eating or sleeping either.
Handling is a brilliant way to make your terrapins friendly when they are bigger, they need to be used to human company or they are likely to be biters. I think its best to buy your pet from a young age in order to ensure they still are impressionable and still learning.
It is impossible to avoid handling your terrapin anyway, you will have to lift them out to put them in a safe place while changing the water or rearranging the tank, its also good to have a good look at their eyes and nostrils at least once a week.
When I handle my terrapins I tend to hold them as shown in this picture of me and squirt. (COMING SOON) ) This way, squirt can not fall off my hand and at the same time his feet are supported so he feels like he is on safe ground. Nets are not a good idea, if you can’t bring yourself to handle them then don’t buy them, nets could cause serious damage!
Just be careful, you know what I mean, don’t drop them, and don’t leave them with children unsupervised, they are delicate!