In a tragic turn of events, a 34-year-old Colorado man, Christopher Ward, has passed away after being bitten by his pet Gila monster. 😢
On February 12, Ward was bitten by one of his two pet Gila monsters, named Winston and Potato. According to reports, his girlfriend heard unusual sounds and entered the room to find Winston latched onto Ward's hand. 🦎
Immediately after the bite, Ward began exhibiting severe symptoms, including vomiting and eventually losing consciousness. He was rushed to a local hospital, where he was placed on life support. Sadly, doctors declared him brain dead, and he died on Friday.
The incident has raised concerns about the risks associated with keeping venomous reptiles as pets. Gila monsters, native to the southwestern U.S. and parts of Mexico, are one of the few venomous lizard species. While their bites are rarely fatal, they can cause intense pain and serious medical complications.
Ward's girlfriend informed authorities that they had purchased Winston at a reptile exhibition in Denver in October and Potato from a breeder in Arizona in November. In addition to the Gila monsters, officers removed 26 spiders of various species from their home. 🕷️
Animal control officers, working with the Colorado Department of Natural Resources, have sent the lizards to Reptile Gardens in South Dakota for care. The incident serves as a somber reminder of the potential dangers of owning exotic and venomous animals.
Stay safe out there, amigos! Let's always be mindful of the responsibilities that come with owning exotic pets. ❤️
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
