Homes wanted for turtles dumped in a Shropshire field

The turtles were discovered by a dog walker, sitting in a box in long grass.

Now the pair, who have been nicknamed Starsky and Hutch, are being cared for by a veterinary surgery.

The turtles were discovered by Leanne Turvey-Smith, 30, as she walked her dogs close to her home on Horsehay Common in Telford.

They had been placed inside a see-through box with holes in the top with the words 'ninja turtles' written on it.

"When I opened the box and looked inside, after my daughter pointed it out, I instantly thought they should be in some kind of water and I just took them home straight away," said Miss Turvey-Smith.

"There was no place we could have kept them safe really so I decided to report it to the RSPCA who directed me to a veterinary centre that deal with exotic animals.

"I really hope both the little turtles are getting on okay and being treated well."

The turtles are now in the care of the staff at Taylor and Marshall Veterinary Surgeons on High Street in Shifnal, who specialise in the care of snakes, lizards and other exotic animals.

Julieann Berry, practice manager nurse, said: "They have been deprived of food and water which they desperately need so we have made sure they are now in the correct environment.

"At the moment we are quite concerned that they may have an infection due to a pink tinge at the bottom of their shells. They are clearly quite weak and we're hoping they respond well to the home we have put them in.

"We are hoping that someone will be able to re-home these little guys although at the moment it is proving quite difficult to find a new owner."

"Exotic animals are becoming more popular to have as pets. It is important people know that they are taking on a commitment and that they need caring for."

Taylor and Marshall Veterinary Surgeons can be reached on 01952 460781.