Note: Ugly photo at URL below.
BBC (London, UK) 17 October 06 Burnt snake sparks RSPCA warning
The RSPCA has warned people to do thorough research before taking on exotic pets after a snake was found with burns to a quarter of its body.
Owners of the corn snake, in Reading, Berks, took it to a vet to be put down, saying it was too aggressive to handle.
Post-mortem tests revealed the reptile had burns across its body, probably caused by the incorrect use of a heat lamp in its enclosure.
The RSPCA cautioned the owners, who admitted causing unnecessary suffering.
Sue Dobson, RSPCA inspector, said: "This poor creature would have been in real discomfort and should have been taken to a vet for immediate treatment.
"It was obvious that the snake's owners did not have the knowledge and commitment to give an exotic pet the specialist care and attention it needed."
Research carried out by the RSPCA in 2004 found vets were concerned at the number of exotic animals suffering because of an increasing lack of knowledge of how to look after them.
Burnt snake sparks RSPCA warning
