RINGWOOD, VIC. — A 37-year-old Warrandyte man has been fined $12,000 without conviction and had the number of animals he can own restricted for failing to provide sufficient care and veterinary treatment to reptiles in his possession.
He was sentenced in the Ringwood Magistrates’ Court this month after he pleaded guilty to charges under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1986.
The offences included failing to provide water for 32 snakes and failing to seek veterinary treatment for three snakes and 13 lizards. He also administered carbon dioxide gas to two snakes and eight lizards without authorisation, resulting in their death.
In addition to the fine, the man was issued with a 10-year Control Order limiting the number of wildlife he may own.
Conservation Regulator Authorised Officers conducted several inspections of the man’s premises across a two-year period, during which large numbers of reptiles were being kept in Melbourne’s outer eastern suburbs.
All wildlife in Victoria is protected under the Wildlife Act 1975.
The Conservation Regulator administers private wildlife licences under the Wildlife Act, which allow licence holders to keep wildlife as pets subject to a range of strict conditions.
Licence holders must ensure animals are properly fed, housed and cared for to support their health and welfare.
Crime Stoppers Victoria 1800 333 000 or report online.
