VIDEO: Tiny Tina the turtle found dumped in a dustbin

Heath Veterinary Clinic, in Burgess Hill and Hurstpierpoint, has been nursing the turtle back to health.

Originally nicknamed Tiny Tim, Tiny Tina (who is actually a girl) was found dumped in a dustbin in the local area and handed in to Heath Vets last week.

She was cold, lethargic and very hungry but once warmed up by the staff, she began to be more active but needed extra TLC before she started eating again.

With a shell about the size of a 50 pence piece, Tiny Tina really is teeny and is thought to be only one month old, although she could live up to 50 years.

Her skin had not shed as well as it should have, but is now looking less flaky and she appears to be on the mend.

Sarah Solomon, Practice Manager of Heath Veterinary Clinic, said: “We were really shocked to have a turtle brought into the clinic and upset to find out she had been dumped.

“Exotic pets are becoming more popular but unfortunately are sometimes sold without the necessary research, habitat or advice.

“It has been very difficult to find a suitable home for Tiny Tina as the local RSPCA centre is temporarily closed at the moment. However, I met with the East Sussex Reptile and Amphibian Society (www.esras.co.uk) who have taken her on, ensuring she gets the treatment and care needed.”

Don’t miss out on all the latest breaking news where you live.

Here are four ways you can be sure you’ll be amongst the first to know what’s going on.

1) Make our website your homepage at www.midsussextimes.co.uk

2) Like our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/midsussextimes

3) Follow us on Twitter @midsussex_times

4) Register with us by clicking on ‘sign in’ (top right corner). You can then receive our daily newsletter AND add your point of view to stories that you read here.

And do share with your family and friends - so they don’t miss out!

The Mid Sussex Times - always the first with your local news.

Be part of it.