PawHut Wooden Tortoise House Indoor Outdoor Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

Thank you for purchasing the PawHut Wooden Tortoise House. This habitat is designed to provide a spacious and comfortable environment for your tortoise, suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. It features a multi-level design with a sleeping area, balcony, and activity run, all constructed from durable fir wood with a water-resistant finish. This manual provides essential information for the safe assembly, operation, and maintenance of your tortoise house.

2. Safety Information

• Read all instructions carefully before assembly and use.
• Keep all small parts and packaging materials away from children and pets to prevent choking hazards.
• Ensure all screws and fasteners are securely tightened during assembly. Periodically check for loose connections.
• Place the tortoise house on a stable, level surface to prevent tipping.
• When used outdoors, ensure the house is protected from extreme weather conditions (e.g., strong winds, heavy rain, direct scorching sun) to prolong its lifespan and ensure pet safety.
• Regularly inspect the habitat for any damage or wear that could harm your pet.
• Do not modify the product in any way not specified by the manufacturer.

3. Package Contents

Before beginning assembly, please ensure all parts are present and undamaged. Refer to the included parts list (if provided with your physical product) to verify. The package should contain:

• Wooden panels for the main structure (base, walls, roof sections)
• Galvanised mesh wire panels
• Ladder
• Plastic tray
• Hardware pack (screws, hinges, latches, etc.)
• Assembly instructions (this manual or a separate guide)

If any parts are missing or damaged, please contact customer support before proceeding with assembly.

4. Assembly Instructions

Assembly of the PawHut Tortoise House requires basic tools (e.g., screwdriver) and can typically be completed by one person, though two people may make it easier. Follow these general steps:

1. Unpack and Identify Parts: Carefully unpack all components and lay them out. Identify each wooden panel, mesh section, and hardware piece.
2. Assemble the Base: Begin by constructing the main base frame of the tortoise house. Ensure all panels are oriented correctly as per the diagrams (if provided in a separate assembly guide).
3. Attach Side Walls: Securely attach the side walls to the base using the provided screws.
4. Install Internal Dividers: Position and secure the internal wooden dividers that create the sleeping area, balcony, and activity run.
5. Mount the Ladder: Install the ladder connecting the lower level (activity area) to the upper balcony section.
6. Attach Mesh Panels: Secure the galvanised mesh wire panels to the designated areas, ensuring they are firmly attached to prevent escape and provide ventilation.
7. Assemble Roof Sections: Construct the roof sections, including the openable lids for each area. Attach hinges and latches as required.
8. Insert Plastic Tray: Slide the plastic tray into the designated slot at the bottom of the main enclosure for easy cleaning.
9. Final Checks: Once assembled, double-check all screws and fasteners to ensure they are tight and secure. Ensure all doors and roofs open and close smoothly and latch properly.

Note: Detailed step-by-step diagrams are typically included with the physical product. Please refer to those for precise assembly instructions.

5. Operating Instructions

Your PawHut Tortoise House is designed for ease of use and to provide a comfortable habitat for your pet.

• Placement: Choose a suitable location, either indoors or outdoors, that offers appropriate temperature, humidity, and protection from predators or harsh weather.
• Access: The openable roof sections allow for easy access to all areas of the habitat for feeding, cleaning, and interacting with your tortoise.
• Security: Utilize the lockable doors to keep your pet securely inside the enclosure, especially when used outdoors.
• Ventilation & Sunlight: The mesh panels ensure proper air circulation and allow natural sunlight to reach your tortoise, which is crucial for their health.
• Multi-level Design: Your tortoise can utilize the ladder to move between the lower activity run and the upper balcony, providing enrichment and exercise.
• Sleeping Area: The enclosed sleeping area offers a dark, secure space for your tortoise to rest and feel safe.

6. Maintenance

Regular cleaning and maintenance will ensure a healthy environment for your tortoise and extend the life of the habitat.

• Daily Cleaning: Remove any uneaten food and waste from the enclosure daily.
• Tray Cleaning: The plastic pull-out tray makes cleaning easy. Remove the tray, empty its contents, wash with pet-safe disinfectant and water, rinse thoroughly, and dry before returning it.
• Habitat Cleaning: Periodically wipe down the wooden surfaces with a damp cloth and a pet-safe cleaner. Avoid harsh chemicals that could be toxic to your tortoise.
• Wood Care: The fir wood is treated with water-resistant paint. However, for outdoor use, consider applying a non-toxic, pet-safe wood sealant annually to further protect against weather elements.
• Mesh Inspection: Check the galvanised mesh wire regularly for any signs of damage or rust. Replace if necessary to ensure security and prevent injury.
• Hardware Check: Periodically inspect all screws, hinges, and latches for tightness. Tighten any loose hardware to maintain structural integrity.

7. Troubleshooting

Here are some common issues and simple solutions:

• Wobbly Structure: Ensure all screws are fully tightened. If the issue persists, disassemble and reassemble, paying close attention to joint connections.
• Difficulty Opening/Closing Roof: Check hinges for alignment and ensure no debris is obstructing the movement. Lubricate hinges with a pet-safe lubricant if needed.
• Unpleasant Odor: This usually indicates a need for more frequent cleaning. Ensure the plastic tray is cleaned regularly and the entire habitat is wiped down. Improve ventilation if used indoors.
• Tortoise Not Using All Areas: Ensure the ladder is stable and easy for your tortoise to climb. Check that temperatures and lighting are appropriate in all sections of the habitat.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, product support, or to report missing/damaged parts, please refer to the documentation included with your purchase or contact the retailer/manufacturer directly. Keep your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.