Hey HCA! My name is Liz and I am a new crab owner...well, technically I am a co-owner. I am 21 years old and live with my parents, my brother and his family. My mom bought my niece and nephew two hermit crabs from the mall, thinking they would be great pets for kids (mistake #1)...
poor babies...one died within a couple weeks, so I did some research. I have always wanted to be a reptile owner but have not been able to afford it, however I knew the small cage and conditions Batman was being kept in was not acceptable. I saved up a little money, dragged my mom and boyfriend to the pet store with me, and bought a few supplies, as well as another crab. We made a few mistakes so far and I have tried my best to reverse them and make the best home possible for them. Good news is that Batman is stronger and healthier and more active than ever! Bad news is Mary Jane has been burrowed since we brought her home. I think she is suffering from PPS. She has eaten some which is a relief. I am going to watch her and hope she pushes through all the stress poor thing! Here lies my problem: my mom insists on taking both crabs out of the cage a few times EVERY DAY! I know she is concerned, she is a nurse, and over cares for all things seemingly sick. I have tried to share with her the facts I have learned, texted her tidbits of information that I hoped would convince her to stop handling Mary Jane at least. But she insists on bathing (with TAP WATER) handling, forcing them out of their comfy holes way way way too often. She seems to be doing it less but I have caught her doing it behind my back even! I am really worried for both of their health because of this. Especially Mary Jane, and it is only going to be worse once the kids move back in with us. Is there anything I can do for them? Do you have any tips or tricks on handling these types of situations? Thanks for listening and caring for these creatures with me
) all my family thinks I am crazy for caring so much about a crab lol
