A West Lothian mum is desperately trying to find a new home for her pet Iguana as the cost of keeping the pet has become too much in the midst of a cost of living crisis.
Chelsea Cumming, 32, from Deidrige, is heartbroken about having to rehome her beloved pet but says that rising energy prices have left her with no choice. Alongside this, becoming a new mum to her one-year-old daughter has also meant that Figment, the seven-year-old red Iguana, is confined to his tank.
Chelsea has tried to offer Figment to Edinburgh Zoo as well as to Five Sisters but neither establishment was able to help her out. As a result, she is appealing to the public to help her find a new home for her pet lizard that has a loveable character.
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She said: “I am having to give him up due to rising energy costs and having a small child. I just cannot provide the care he needs now.
“It has been difficult finding him a new home over the last few months as I think people are in the same boat with electricity costs. But he is a very lovable character.
“He will come up on your knee for head pets and strokes. I love him so much, he's been with me for seven years.
“He used to just wander around the house but because of the baby he's had to be in his tank again. I'm absolutely heartbroken that I have to re-home him.
“He’s really good natured, he has never bitten me or tail whipped me. But I would never let them together just in case. Animals are still animals.
“Both Edinburgh Zoo and the Five Sisters said they were unable to take him. They did not offer any other help or information.
“He's pretty easy to care for. He's a vegetarian so no need for bugs or insects.
“I clean him out weekly, which is a basic clean with soapy water. He likes a bath every now and again. And just likes cuddles!
“With the food, he probably costs about £20/£30 a month. I'm not too sure how much extra the electricity would be as I've always had him since I started paying the bills.”
If anyone would like to enquire about rehoming Figment then please email Chelsea at this address: chelseacumming@hotmail.com
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