A PUBLIC appeal has been issued after a bearded dragon was left abandoned in a shoebox in Edinburgh earlier this month.

The animal was said to have been "very dehydrated" after being found by a member of the public near Arthur's Seat on Wednesday, January 11.

Officials say it was missing a leg and also part of his tail when he was discovered.

The bearded dragon is now in the care of SSPCA staff, who have named it Ivor.

The welfare charity is currently investigating the circumstances of the incident and is asking anyone with information to come forward.

Chief Inspector Paul Anderson said: “Ivor was found without any food or water in a shoebox on Arthur’s Seat.

“He was very dehydrated, thin and obviously very cold having been left out like that.

“He’s missing his back right leg, and the tip of his tail.

“Abandoning an animal is an offence under the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006.

"Anyone found guilty of doing so can expect to be banned from keeping animals for a fixed period or life.”

Those with information can contact the Scottish SPCA animal helpline on 03000 999 999.