Raiders take 40 animals from exotic pet shop
Snakes dumped outside in street
APET shop owner has been left devastated after thieves broke into his store and snatched more than 40 animals. Two snakes were dumped outside
in the street following the raid at Ipets Pet Superstore in Waterfoot, including a 9ft python, which is one of the world’s longest, and an Amazon tree boa, which sadly died.
The shop’s owner has pleaded for the return of the other animals. He said: “It is devastating. We just hope all of the missing animals are safe.”
AN exotic pet shop owner has been left devastated after thieves broke into his store and stole more than 40 animals - including the largest species of snake in the world.
The burglary happened at Ipets Pet Superstore, on Burnley Road East, Waterfoot, and was discovered by the owner when he arrived for work at 9am on Tuesday, June 11.
Police are investigating and say the thieves broke in through the roof. They then stole royal pythons, rat snakes, bearded dragons, guinea pigs, rats and monitors.
Also taken was an Amazon tree boa, which was then dumped outside and sadly died.
A 9ft reticulated python, which is a species that can grow to well over 20ft and is the world’s longest, was left outside and is now
recovering at the vets.
The owner, who does not wish to be named, has pleaded for the safe return of the animals and has used Facebook to offer a £500 reward to catch those responsible for the theft.
He said: “It’s devastating.
“We spent three months building a large pet shop which has the animals’ interests at heart. Everything has larger enclosure than 99 per cent of other pet stores and the welfare comes first.
“We have a strict policy of who we sell to and who is deemed responsible and adequate to home one of our animals.
“We just hope all the missing animals are safe. Even if we don’t get them back their interests are the most important thing at this moment in time.
“We urge anyone with information to contact the police.”
Lancashire Police have confirmed officers are investigating the break-in and appealed for witnesses. People are also being urged to report anyone who is offering the unusual pets or pet accessories, that were also stolen, for sale.
Michaela Holt, from animal group Rossendale Responsible Rescue, said: “People should be aware they could be buying stolen animals and should contact the police or pet shop straight away.”
During the break-in, which happened between close of business on Monday and opening time on Tuesday, the store was ransacked and other animals were left loose around the premises.
The owner added: “All the animals that were found loose in and outside the unit are now in quarantine and will be assessed over the coming days.
“We are still open for business but all animal sales have been placed on hold for the next few days at least.”