THE RSPCA has launched an investigation after a dying leopard gecko was found abandoned in a sealed box which was thrown into some bushes at a park.


The poor gecko was found when a dog that was being walked in King George V Playing Fields in Guisborough came across the cardboard box in the undergrowth and started sniffing at it.


The dog’s owner went to investigate and through a small gap could see the head of a gecko inside the taped-up box so took it home and alerted the RSPCA.
Inspector Steph Baines was sent to investigate, and she took the reptile to a nearby vets for emergency treatment. 


Sadly, the skinny leopard gecko was found to have metabolic bone disease which is generally caused by inappropriate diet and environmental conditions. 
It was so advanced the vet decided the kindest and only option was to put the gecko to sleep to end his suffering. 

The Northern Echo:
Mrs Baines said: “It is a callous act to throw away a pet in this way which had clearly been neglected during his short life.
“There are plenty of charities and help out there for people who may be struggling with their pets.
“The box was taped up and the gecko would’ve had no means to escape or find any food or water so had clearly been left to die. He was sentenced to a slow and lingering death and was lucky to be found.
“The box was found in undergrowth near the playing field which is between Woodhouse Road and the A171 at around 6pm on Monday evening so I am hoping someone may have seen something and be able to help me with my investigation.
“I am just grateful to the dog walker who found the pet and took him home to care for him until we got there.”

The Northern Echo:
Leopard geckos, like other reptiles, have specific needs including controlled temperature, lighting and humidity and specific dietary requirements, and the RSPCA always urges people to properly research what is required in the care of their pet before taking them on.


Mrs Baines added: “We are finding that many people are unaware of how much of a commitment these animals are when they take them on, which we believe may be why we are rescuing hundreds of reptiles every year.
“Reptiles may look resilient and tough on the outside, but they are actually completely reliant on their owners to provide the correct environment for the species, including heating and lighting, and an appropriate diet - which are essential to keep them healthy and allow them to carry out their natural behaviour. 
“Without proper care they can suffer from serious diseases and, in severe cases or if left untreated, they can die. It is not always easy for an owner to tell when they are ill, fearful or suffering and by the time they are taken to a vet, if at all, it can be too late.”


Anyone who would like further information on how to care for leopard geckos should visit: https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/other/leopardgecko

 

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