How One Tiny Tortoise Became Indiana’s Sweetest Success Story

From Neglect to Neighborhood Celebrity: Meet Strawberry Shortcake

As soon as I met Missy Mosby, I could tell how much she loved animals and I am talking ALL animals. Yes, she loves cats and dogs but she has a special place in her heart for Strawberry Shortcake and no, I'm not talking about the girl who's a cartoon. I am talking about a tortoise.

A Tough Start

Back in January, Evansville Animal Care and Control took in a heartbreaking abuse and neglect case. Along with several dogs and two cockatiels, there were also three tortoises which were severely dehydrated, malnourished, and in rough shape.

That’s where Missy Mosby stepped in.

She brought the tortoises into her office, giving them sweet names that hinted at better days ahead: Strawberry Shortcake, Ginger Snap, and Apple Blossom.

One Little Fighter

It was Strawberry Shortcake needed the most help.

After a vet visit revealed just how serious things were and concerns about her back legs Missy got to work. She reached out to experts, called the zoo, talked with a tortoise specialist, and dove into research to figure out exactly what this little reptile needed to survive.

Then came the daily care: special foods like spinach and dried dandelions, shell sprays, and a whole lot of patience.

The Sweetest Turning Point

And then the moment Missy and everyone was waiting for... progress.

Strawberry Shortcake started eating. Getting stronger. Trusting Missy.

But the real turning point? Strawberries. Which makes perfect sense on how she got her name. Every morning, Missy would sit down with her own fruit, and Strawberry Shortcake would be watching closely. If she didn’t get a bite, she’d make it very clear she wasn’t happy. That’s when “Gertrude” officially got a new name, Strawberry Shortcake.

Living Her Best Life

Fast forward to now, and Strawberry Shortcake is thriving.

She’s become a full-on mascot at Evansville Animal Care and Control and is getting ready to visit schools and community events to help teach others about animal care.

She’s also living pretty large with her own tortoise condo, an outdoor pen for sunny days, and even a leash for walks (yes, really).

A Mission That Matters

Missy says Strawberry Shortcake is more than just a rescue success story, she’s proof of what compassion and dedication can do.

And judging by the attention she gets on her walks, she’s also a bit of a local celebrity.

Not bad for a tortoise who almost didn’t make it.

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