South Bay Animal Hospital Launches GoFundMe For Wounded Tortoise

SAN JOSE, CA — The medical staff at a South Bay animal hospital has launched a GoFundMe in support of a beloved tortoise recovering from severe stab wounds

George Robles, 40 of San Jose, was arrested Saturday in connection with the vicious attack on “Michelangelo” at Play 'N' Learn Preschool at 505 Massar Ave., San Jose Police said.

The 70-year-old African Supcata Tortoise was stabbed with a piece of wood that shattered his outer shell according to police.

Michelangelo, adored at the preschool where children enjoyed feeding and riding him daily as they learned to care for the animals, was rushed to ARCHVET Animal Hospital, where he underwent surgery to remove chards of rubbish, wooden planks and glass from inside his shell, and to assess for any internal injuries.

The surgery was performed by Dr. Tal Solomon, who has made it his mission to rehabilitate and return Michelangelo to the children at no cost, according to Shani Solomon, who is organizing the GoFundMe drive.

“He wishes for the tortoise to make a full recovery and return home where he is loved and adored,” Shani Solomon wrote on the GoFundMe page.

All indications are that Michelangelo’s rehabilitation is going well.

“For now, Michelangelo the strongest ninja-turtle we know is on his journey to recovery in the hands of Dr. Solomon and the entire staff at ARCH veterinary hospital in San Jose,” Shani Solomon wrote.

“He will remain in the intensive care, and the careful watch of several exotic and veterinary medicine professionals until he heals, rehabilitates, and can return to the preschool and children who love him so dearly.”

Robles, who was arrested on suspicion of animal abuse and felony vandalism, caused over $1,800 in damage to the building and children’s play equipment according to police.

Robles continued to act erratically after his arrest and was placed on a 72-hour emergency mental health evaluation, police said.

“Abuse of a defenseless animal is intolerable and must be addressed,” acting Chief of Police Dave Tindall said in a statement.

“This underscores the need for continued collaboration with our mental health professionals. I am thankful for our Officers crisis intervention training which resulted in a safe arrest for all those involved.”

All the proceeds from the GoFundMe will go towards the costs of Michelangelo’s rehabilitation and other animals who have experienced abuse, harm, and neglect, Shani Solomon said.

To contribute to this GoFundMe visit here.

GoFundMe is a Patch promotional partner