A BEARDED dragon is being cared for by an animal charity after being found dumped in supermarket toilets.
The male reptile was discovered in the male toilets at a Morrison’s store in Edinburgh on Sunday evening.
The Scottish Society for the Protection of Animals (SSPCA) is now trying to track down the person who dumped the animal.
The charity said the bearded dragon, which was found in a white sack, may have been abandoned by someone who had found it too difficult to care for.
Inspector June Chalcroft said, “The bearded dragon was discovered inside a white sack in the men’s toilets at around 5pm.
“The shop would have been fairly busy at this time, so we’re hoping members of the public may have noticed someone, probably female, carrying the sack in to the store.
“There’s no excuse for throwing an animal away like it’s a piece of rubbish, but sadly animals are regularly dumped in all sorts of unusual places including public toilets.
“We see a lot of abandoned and unwanted exotic creatures coming into our care because people underestimate the hard work and knowledge required to look after these types of animals.
“Reptiles and bearded dragons in particular have very specific needs in terms of their environment, nutrition and care.
“Anyone thinking of getting this type of pet should do their research and make sure that they have the time and resources to give their animal the life it deserves.
“The charity is warning that abandoning an animal is an offence that carries stiff penalties up to a maximum of six months in prison, a £5,000 fine or both.
Anyone found guilty of doing so can expect to be banned from keeping animals for a fixed period or life. Anyone with information relating to the bearded dragon should contact the Scottish SPCA Animal Helpline on 03000 999 999.
Bearded dragons are native to Australia and can grow to 2ft in length.
