A Coldstream woman has been charged with 14 animal cruelty offences after she was allegedly caught keeping several varieties of native reptiles in poor conditions in July 2020.
The 24-year-old is accused of various animal cruelty offences relating to six lizards, one turtle, and one snake by not feeding, housing, or caring for them sufficiently.
Conservation Regulator Authorised Officers attended the property following a report about wildlife welfare and licensing concerns and upon inspection found several types of reptiles in small, dirty enclosures and some with no access to food.
Officers seized a total of 19 animals, many of which were in poor condition, emaciated or with missing limbs and digits, and took them to be assessed by qualified veterinarians. Two of the animals were subsequently euthanised due to their ill health.
Failure to provide adequate veterinary treatment, and sufficient food, drink or shelter are serious offences under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986.
“It is a privilege to keep wildlife as pets in Victoria and it is a serious offence to neglect an animal and fail to provide it with appropriate veterinary attention, food and housing to keep it safe and healthy,” Port Phillip Region Regulatory Program Manager Andrew Johnstone said.
In Victoria, pet owners face penalties up to $48,077 and/or 12 months in jail for animal cruelty and up to $96,155 and/or two years in jail for aggravated animal cruelty for each charge.
The woman will appear before Ringwood Magistrates’ Court on 12 October 2023.
Anyone with information about wildlife crime is urged to contact Crime Stoppers Victoria on 1800 333 000. Callers can remain anonymous.
