rescued baby turtle

Question
We have a baby turtle approximately an inch long with yellow spots only encircling the rim of his shell.  I am getting no response here in virginia beach from the wildlife rescue as to what to do with the little guy.  I am not keeping him only wondering what to do to best possibly ensure his survival.  He was brought to us as we have two young boys by our older neighbors who had found him floating in their pool.  I have researched and some say keep until bigger to ensure survival; others say immediate release but we have two cats.  What is the best way to ensure his little survival.  Also VB aquarium cannot accept due to "quarentine issues."  Help.

Answer
Yes, he would need to be quarantined for a while before being accepted by an institution, but that doesn't mean they can't take him.

No, you don't have to keep them until they are older if there is a suitable habitat nearby which is safe, but that depends on the species and just how small he is. Some species are very home range specific and can't be released far away from where they were born or they may not survive.

The best thing is release back to the wild if at all possible, because wild turtles don't typically take to captivity well, and many die because captive stress lowers their immune response, or they often refuse to eat because they don't feel safe. I need to talk to you about release first before you do it.  

I have to go meet someone to rescue a baby squirrel now too, but best thing to do is get in touch with me by email through my rescue website at http://freewebs.com/wichitafallsreptilerescue and email me a couple of good clear pictures. I have to know the species first, then I wioll get back in touch with you at my first chance.

Do not try to give the turtle anything to eat, or drink anything other that distilled, or dechlorinated/bottled water, and do not place it into water deeper than the sides of it's shell for now until I know what species it is.