16 neglected tortoises rescued from Boksburg nursery school
Some of the animals had to be humanely euthanised.
In a case that underscores the dangers of ignorance and neglect, the Boksburg SPCA has rescued 16 tortoises from appalling conditions at a local nursery school.
According to SPCA manager Vicky Finnemore, the rescue took place on July 18 after the society received a complaint about the animals’ welfare.
“Upon investigation, our field officer discovered 16 tortoises being kept in unacceptable conditions,” said Finnemore.
“Several hatchlings were confined in a small rabbit cage, while the adult tortoises were left to roam barren, sandy areas with no appropriate habitat.”
Finnemore emphasised the legal status of tortoises in South Africa:
“It is illegal to keep tortoises as pets here. They are indigenous wild animals protected by law and should never be held in captivity.”
The school principal was informed about the legal implications and was instructed to surrender the tortoises to the SPCA.
The tortoises were immediately taken to the Johannesburg Wildlife Veterinary Hospital, where vets found that most were suffering from metabolic bone disease—a serious condition caused by lack of sunlight and Vitamin D.
“The disease had progressed to the point of causing partial paralysis,” Finnemore explained, “and sadly, several tortoises had to be humanely euthanised.”
Many of the rescued tortoises were also severely emaciated due to poor nutrition. Disturbingly, some showed signs of trauma, including shell damage believed to have been caused by dog bites.
“It’s important to understand that a tortoise’s shell is not just an outer covering. It is a living part of their skeleton, formed by fused ribs and spine, containing nerves and blood vessels. This means tortoises feel pain through their shells, making injuries or neglect especially cruel,” Finnemore added.
Boksburg SPCA and the Johannesburg Wildlife Veterinary Hospital are considering legal action against the nursery school principal.
“As institutions responsible for educating young children, schools should uphold the highest standards of care and ethics. Ignorance is no excuse,” said Finnemore.
She also thanked the veterinary hospital for their compassionate care in nursing the surviving tortoises back to health.
The SPCA strongly advises against keeping “classroom pets,” especially when the animals’ specific needs have not been researched or understood. Wild animals do not belong in classrooms.
Finnemore pointed out that many people take on wild animals without educating themselves about proper care.
This applies not only to indigenous animals but also to exotic species.
“Wild animals are not domesticated and should never be held captive. They belong in their natural habitats,” she said.
She urged the public to avoid buying wild animals from pet traders.
“They will continue to sell these animals as long as there is a market.”
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