A LLANHILLETH woman has been disqualified from keeping reptiles for two years after being found guilty of neglect.

Holly Alana Kate Randall, aged 26, of Upper Court Terrace, pleaded guilty to causing unnecessary suffering at Cwmbran Magistrates' Court on Monday.

Under the Animal Welfare Act, Randall failed to explore and address the cause of two boa constrictor's body condition, as well as causing unnecessary suffering to a bearded dragon.

RSPCA inspector Sophie Daniels said: “When visiting I had grave concerns for these reptiles. The bearded dragon was very thin and had extreme retained skin, there was an emaciated boa constrictor and also a thin boa constrictor.

“Exotic animals need specialist care and sadly these animals had not been looked after appropriately.”

The two snakes and the bearded dragon were passed over into the care of the RSPCA, where they were given immediate veterinary treatment.

According to the organisation, the animals are now doing well have been transferred to an exotics specialist for rehoming.

Magistrates gave Randall a total of £520 costs and fines, including two £100 fines for causing unnecessary suffering to the animals.

Legal costs totalled £300 while the defendant had to pay a £20 victim surcharge to the court.

Randall also received a two-year ban on all reptiles, however this is suspended until June 6 in order for other animals in her care to be rehomed.

The RSCPA urge anyone considering acquiring an exotic pet to do as much research as possible.

For more information, visit www.rspca.org.uk/exotics..