13th October 2006

Iguana Found On Moor

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The RSPCA is appealing for information in a bid to trace the owner of an iguana that was abandoned in Cornwall.

RSPCA Animal Collection Officer (ACO) Felcity Cross was called to collect the young male iguana from a local veterinary surgery, after workmen discovered the reptile on Bodmin Moor, and took him to the vets for safe keeping.

’This looks like yet another example of an exotic pet being abandoned,’ said ACO Cross. ‘It is a sad fact that exotic pets are frequently abandoned after their owners lose interest in then or decide they are too big or difficult for them to keep.’

The iguana is a young male, and measures approximately 4 feet long from nose to tail. He is in a fair condition despite his ordeal, but is slightly underweight and has been unable to shed his skin properly.

ACO Cross added, ‘There is never any excuse for abandoning an animal, and if people have pets which they can no longer care for, help and advice is available from a number of organisations including the RSPCA.’

The iguana is currently being cared for at the RSPCA Venton Animal Centre in Cornwall, where he will remain until he is rehomed or a space can be found with a fosterer specialising in exotic pets.

Anyone with information about the abandonment of this iguana is urged to contact the RSPCA cruelty line in confidence on: 0870 55 55 999.