I have some concerns over how I am keeping my Horsefield, and the advice I was given from multiple stores.

I bought my Horsefield tort about 6 weeks ago from a reptile store (I phoned a lady who breeds them who was waiting for eggs, and my fiance's best friend had a healthy tort which he bought from the store a couple of years ago). I was sold a vivarium (which should last 12-ish months - we will be buying our first house then so I was planning on upgrading his/hers shelter at that time) 

We also bought some woodchips, a dried type of hay, water bowl, feeding bowl, electronic thermostat, light, a UV lamp (it's black so it's not bright at night) along with some dried food and a white powder (I'm at work so I presume this is vitamins - we feed him every second day on advice of the shop, with a mixture of fresh rocket and some lettuce leaves which he seems to like - the green dried pellets stay in the food bowl, and get topped up when needed.

Now I've been reading a lot about the cons of a vivarium, and although I spent £350 5-6 weeks ago on an enclosure and bits and pieces, I am happy to  spend more if a viv is not the way to go, as I want the best for "tank".

I would really appreciate some advice from any members (I have read the sheets, although I'd feel better if I could talk to some knowledgeable people)

If I keep him in a viv, at a constant 30, with woodchips, should I swap the woodchips out for a soil and sand mix so he can burrow/dig around? he has a nice wooden shelter covered in hay which I think he likes, and the artificial light is on from 7am - 8/9pm - should I add some rocks and artificial plants in the mix - he seems to love to climb so was thinking putting other bits in.

We bathe him everyday, replace the water daily, and when possible, we let him roam on the couch/floor.

Are viv's bad for horsefields? Am I better with a tortoise table? I want him to have the best life he can, and to develop properly, but my head's all over the place with information from loads of different sources. 

I have heard him scratching at times and lift up his house (I presume from digging) Also I think the heat lamp may be too high up? 

Apologies if the post is disjointed or makes no sense - from a worried tort owner.

Many thanks in advance

Thank you for a well written post with full details.

I would contact the shop & demand a refund. You have been mis-sold a viv. & other unsuitable items. There is a protocol & many have been successful.

Aim for an outdoor enclosure when you move.

Regards,

Tom