Local turtle given ‘second chance’ after abuse case

The Humane Society of Greater Dayton reports a local couple pleaded guilty in a turtle neglect case.

On June 30, Yong Dong and Xue Dong pleaded guilty in a Montgomery County court to one count each of attempted animal cruelty after a turtle was found for sale at their local market in a very neglected state, according to a media release.

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A customer of the market reported the turtle’s condition to PETA, who then contacted the Humane Society of Greater Dayton.

“Our humane agent investigated the report and removed a 17-year-old Midland Softshell Turtle from the facility,” reads a press release. “The animal was missing its front left foot. Tissues from her toes were missing and the actual toe bones and nails had fallen off her feet.”

The turtle was found with no food and was living in an aquarium filled with filthy water. She was also suffering from life-threatening bacterial and systemic infections, the agency reports.

The turtle, named Isabella, was stabilized and given medical treatment. She has since undergone hydro-therapy to learn how to swim without a front leg, as well as wildlife rehabilitation so she could learn how to catch her own food.

After two months of care, the Humane Society of Greater Dayton was able to release Isabella to a wildlife turtle sanctuary in southeast Ohio.

“Now, she has adapted and is doing well living in a large pond with other turtles and koi fish and received her second chance for a new life,” the release reads.

The Dongs received two years of probation and are subject to random inspections by their probation officer, the humane society or other law enforcement officers. They also have to pay $386.42 in restitution to the Humane Society of Greater Dayton, as well as a $550 fine.

“We are proud that our organization could stand up and be a voice for this turtle,” said Brian Weltge, president and CEO of the Humane Society of Greater Dayton. “As the only organization in the Miami Valley able to care for all types of animals, we have a responsibility to ensure they are all valued and free from suffering.”