The RSPCA was called to Gate Street in Tipton, in the West Midlands, on Sunday (16 October) after the reptile was found and safely retrieved from the dog. RSPCA inspector Dawn Burrell went along to collect the spur thigh tortoise, believed to be aged around one, and took him to a nearby specialist exotic vet. “Dogs and cats often bring in rather random things for their owners but I think this gentleman had a bit of a shock when his pet brought in a tiny tortoise!” inspector Burrell said.

“He knocked on his neighbours’ doors to see if anyone owned a tortoise or was missing one but had no luck so he popped the little one in a shoebox and called us. The tortoise - now named Terry - is being cared for at the veterinary practice and is doing well. But we still don’t know where Terry came from so if anyone recognises him or thinks they may have lost a little tortoise then we’d urge them to get in touch with us on 0300 123 8018.

“If Terry hasn’t escaped then it may be that someone has abandoned him. The RSPCA is seeing a growing number of exotic animals - like tortoises - being abandoned because they are too much of a commitment for some people. They need a specific environment with a temperature gradient at the correct level for the species in order to be healthy and a lot of people don’t realise what they are taking on when they buy them. We would urge any prospective buyers to do their research of the particular species before getting an exotic pet.”

As reptiles, tortoises rely on their environment to be able to warm up or cool down their body temperature in order to function properly. Dumping reptiles outside would be failing to meet the needs of the animals and can cause them to suffer unnecessarily.

If no one comes forward to claim Terry then a member of staff at the veterinary practice has already offered him a home.