The red bearded dragon and Yemen chameleon were found near Chestnut Avenue yesterday.
The poor creatures were discovered by a passerby and were in small boxes, wrapped in a black bin liner.
RSPCA Inspector Jack Taylor said: “The two dead animals were in two small vivariums which had been wrapped in a black rubbish bag.
“These poor animals had not been dead long, and we fear that they died because their welfare needs were not being met. Exotic pets are completely dependent on their owners for the correct accommodation, heating, lighting and feed, all of which must replicate their wild habitat as closely as possible to keep them healthy and allow them to express their normal behaviour.
The Yemen chameleon was one of two pets found dead yesterday
“But the small vivariums they were found in were totally inappropriate for animals who require space and, in the case of chameleons, their natural behaviour includes climbing trees. The substrate provided for the bottom of each ‘viv’ was also inadequate, and they have specific heating, lighting and environmental requirements to keep them healthy.”
Special equipment such as UV lights and heaters and provision of appropriate humidity levels are needed for reptiles such as these. Without proper care they can suffer from serious diseases, dehydration, injuries, parasites, and in severe cases or if left untreated, they can eventually die.
Jack continued: “Sadly, this incident isn’t unusual. We find 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 exotic pets every year. We would urge anyone who is struggling to cope with their pets to contact their local vet or rescue centre and ask for help.”
The red bearded dragon, which was discovered yesterday in Hornchurch
Anyone with information about these animals is asked to contact the RSPCA appeals line on 0300 123 8018.
