Hello everyone,

I care for 3 tortoises (2 Hermann's and 1 African Spur-thighed) and need some guidance regarding the appaling conditions of 2 Horsefields at my local garden centre (see photos of shell deformity, vivarium housing and 'food'). I have just sent this email via their website-

'Dear Sir/Madam,

I visit your garden centre regularly but rarely use the pet section. However, yesterday I was very upset to discover the condition of your Horsefield tortoises. There are several problems with the way in which you are keeping them.

Firstly, a vivarium is not a suitable environment for any tortoise species, they are too small, do not provide enough ventilation and there is no cool area for the tortoise to retreat to if it gets overheated. Secondly, the pelleted food you provide (and sell to your customers) is an entirely unsuitable diet. It was clear from the shell deformities (the shells should be smooth not lumpy) that the tortoises in your shop have a diet that is too high in protein and energy and too low in calcium.

I urge you to visit the Tortoise Trust website where you will find all necessary information regarding correct husbandry.

 If I do not see swift and significant improvements in the way your shop treats the tortoises I will not hesitate in contacting the RSPCA for further assistance.

Thank you for your time, I look forward to your response.'

Is there anyone else besides the RSPCA I should be contacting about this if, as I suspect, no action is taken by the garden centre?

Thanks in advance for any help you can give!

Lucy

Hi
It is very upsetting when you see this and unfortunatley it is a scene we will see more of as time goes on. From experience the problem you will have here from anyone listening to you is that there is water available which then fulfills the criteria of animal care Grrr I would contact the RSPCA as they now have a care sheet on tortoises and the conditions that they should be kept in, (apart from the the substrate, which I have spoken to them about) and this Pet Centre is not adhering to that. You could also get in touch with your local Wildlife officer.
Have you received a reply back from the Pet Centre yet? you could also send them a care sheet
HTH
Jane