Getting your snapping turtle as pet is a process. The decision shouldn't be made impulsively. A pet turtle, and any pet animal, means a committement, and a very long when getting a turtle. They will live for many years, possibly even longer than their owner !

Another factor to take into consideration is understanding how big the turtle will get. Will you be able to take care of it when it outgrows its first baby tank ? Can you afford to feed it ? How about possible vet bills ?

If you decide to get your turtle, you shouldn't take one from the wild. Ther are many turtle breeders out there, and your pet turtle should be bought from them. Removing turtles for the wild has bad effects on their wild populations, and will jeopardize their survial in the wild.

Before making the actual purchase, a person should take care of the setup first. This includes the tank (they are aquatic species), the filter, light and the food for the first few weeks.