Community Corner
Snakes, Geckos Found in Horrid Conditions at Winnetka Home
The sight was hard to stomach even for those who work daily at rescuing animals.
WINNETKA, IL - Several pet snakes and geckos were rescued from a home in Winnetka after being found in deplorable condition, according to a CBS Chicago report.
Some of the python snakes and leopard geckos found in the home have died, but others are being taken care of at the Chicago Exotics Animal Hospital in Skokie. Staff there say it’s one of the worst cases of animal cruelty anyone has ever seen.
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“It was actually really horrifying,” said Erica Mede, executive director of Wheeling-based Friends of Scales Reptile Rescue. “It was hard for my staff members at the clinic to stomach because we hadn’t seen such cases of animal abuse in a very long time, especially with reptiles.”
Some of the animals were covered in snake mites.
“I kid you not – when we opened one of the drawers – my doctor opened the drawer and one of the ball pythons actually came out and just wanted to be held,” Medes said. “We have a picture of him resting his head in her hand... And it is the saddest thing we ever experienced. It actually brought her to tears.”
Two of the four leopard geckos found at the home survived. Three of the five snakes lived as well.
Criminal charges have not been filed.
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