Dr. Mitchell Spero is a nationally known psychologist, but has become internationally known for his dedication to training a turtle, he named Florida.

As our guest speaker, at a Florida conference on reptile training, he deliberated about use of psychology in his field. He discussed different methods he uses to reach children and help them overcome basic fears, frustrations, and insecurities. Surprisingly, many of these same issues that children face, are also evident problems captive reptiles face. Florida, the turtle, helped simplify the psychology.

During the conference, a visit to St. Augustine Alligator Farm in Orlando Florida, showed demonstrations with some their reptiles. In many of the training exercises the use and importance of psychology in that captive environment was very evident. One of the most basic uses was that of a good behavior gets a reward.

Dr. Mitchell Spero's training is more than just turtle tricks. It's about connecting, both with people and animals; and this connection can happen at any level. What a great thing to be able use reptile training as he did. His progress in training has not only opened doors for many children, but has also opened the door for what could be possible with simple training and dedication.

I felt privileged to personally meet and learn more about Dr. Spero I also, had to shake Florida's foot for helping him with his training.

Marshal Joel

One of the unique aspects of Dr. Spero's training is that the reward didn't involve food. The reward was a simple "good boy" with a nice rub on the shell. The key, as Dr. Spero demonstrated with his training, was "consistency". Both in the time exercising the training and method in which he asked for a certain task to be performed. This key yielded the amazing result of a "trained turtle