Spinner may be tiny, but she is a miracle. A very old Three-Toed Box turtle, she was the first special-needs resident to arrive at our sanctuary over 20 years ago—and she’s been inspiring us every day since.
Resilience After Tragedy Spinner suffers from a spinal injury, likely caused by a car or a run-in with a human-operated machine like a lawnmower. Because of the injury, she constantly turns in one direction and cannot use her limbs properly.
Educational Fun Fact: Three-toed box turtles are named for the number of toes on their hind feet (though some have four!). They are incredibly hardy, but they rely on moist environments to keep their shells and skin healthy.
🐢 A Quick Note from our team:
While many of the stories, photos, and life-saving care tips found in our Resource Hub were born during our 35 years at our Malibu, California sanctuary, please note that as of late 2025, American Tortoise Rescue no longer operates a physical sanctuary location.
Don’t worry—the mission hasn’t skipped a beat! Our beloved resident “shellebrities” are enjoying their golden years at Turtle and Tortoise Rescue of Arroyo Grande up the coast, and our work has shifted entirely to global advocacy, education, and shellebration. While we no longer take in new surrenders at a physical site, we are more dedicated than ever to helping you “shellebrate” and protect turtles in your own backyard!
A global movement by American Tortoise Rescue® dedicated to protecting turtles and tortoises and their habitats around the world.
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