Kochi Sushi Japanese Restaurant, located at 160 Stewart Blvd, Brockville currently has two Red-ear slider turtles within their care that are undergoing extreme neglect and abuse. The turtles are currently in horrid conditions, in a 30 gallon tank, filled 1/4 of the way in unclean water. Without proper lighting, heating, temperature, water filtration and more the turtles are at risk of disease, soft shell syndrome, and emancipation due to a lack of exercise, calcium, and increased ammonium. This all leads to a short, painful life. In proper care, these turtles can live for decades and grow over a foot long. 

The improper care of these turtles is also a large risk to human health and those that eat at this restaurant. Salmonella, Botulism, and other infectious diseases are known to stem from turtles and other reptiles. The current state of their tank, unfiltered, concentrated with faeces is extremely dangerous, increasing the risk of transmission to consumers. Other bacteria known to contaminate reptiles is Clostridium, which is commonly found in spores and can become airborne, leading to increased risk of transmission to the produce. Exposure to this disease for infants especially can be extremely dangerous. It is recommended by Health and Safety Ontario to not allow turtles near any food preparation due to previous outbreak of salmonella from similar practices. 

Please sign this petition to push Kochi Sushi to do the right thing and surrender their turtles. Help us speak up and prevent the animal abuse taking place, and eliminate the human health risks posed due to the neglect of turtle care. 

Thank you!