Fluffy the alligator was in rough shape when she was found in a creek in Berks County by landscapers, CBS News reports.

American alligators and American crocodiles aren’t normally found in Pennsylvania, but the pet reptile escaped its owner during the flash floods that hit the area last month.

Fluffy was taken to the Berks County Animal Rescue League so she could be examined by Rudy Arceo, founder of the Venom Institute.

The 10-year-old female alligator was malnourished and only about 2.5 feet long. Normally by that age, alligators would be at least six feet long.

Arceo said an improper diet and enclosure size among other factors could be why the reptile hadn’t grown properly.

Animal welfare officials will check in with the owner and Fluffy to make sure the reptile is getting proper care.

“I’m a firm believer that people should be able to keep animals as long as it’s done ethically and responsibly, making sure it’s secure, fed right, getting everything it needs and has the right space,” Arceo said.

Read more about what happened to Fluffy at CBS News.

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What it is like to have a pet alligator.