Dogs especially but cats as well, are curious animals. In south Florida one of the hazards they can easily encounter is Bufo marinus, better known as the dreaded bufo toad. If you haven't yet seen one, they have grey,knobbly skin. When young, they can be quite small, but the adults can actually be as large as a small cat. They are NOT aggressive and will not bite your pet.

The danger is when animals lick/pick up the toad; this can happen even if the animal paws the toad and then licks their foot. There is a very dangerous toxin on the their skin which gets absorbed in the mouth. The symptoms progress from salivating to seizures and if unattended can result in the animal's death.

There are many reasons your animal can be salivating. The first thing to do is look in your pet's mouth. If there is an item lodged in the gums, between the teeth or under the tongue, of course you should remove the item/go to your veterinarian if you can not easily remove it. Other irritating items can make them slobber. If you either witness the event, see that the gums are red or see no other problem, immediately get a wet washcloth and wipe your pet's mouth generously for 5-10 minutes. If this does not help or if your animal is already having seizures as you get to them, go immediately to your veterinarian or the closest emergency clinic.

Please be aware that animals do NOT learn from the incident. Those who are curious enough to experience this event, frequently repeat the episode. The best way to avoid this situation is to always leash walk your animals. If you decide to let them out without you, be aware that the most common incidents occur at night and also when it is raining.

Cindy Rigg DVM

Civilized canines* and their two legged companions are invited to an authentic English tea party, to benefit The Florida Human Society and The Heifer Project. There will be a canine couture fashion show, for your enjoyment, along with a book signing, with Carla Genender, of "DogSense, 99 Relationship Tips from Your Dog".

Tickets are $40/pp, children under 12 $20/pp.

Space is limited. RSVP to gabiface@aol.com (notate tea party in subject line)

*Well-behaved, leashed dogs welcome.
For everyone's safety, no retractable or flexi leads, please.
Where: Okeehelee Park
When: 2 pm ~ 4 pm
Event Dates: This event takes place on 4/6/2008.

sourcewww.havedog.com

Annual Walk for the Animals
Okeehelee Park, Micanopy pavilion
Palm Beach County's largest pledge walk for pets supports animals in our community who don't have a family of their own. Free breakfast, K9 demos, pet-related vendors and much more! www.hspb.org 5 6 1 – 4 7 2 – 8 8 1 3
(ref:www.havedog.com)

Worth Ave Pet Parade
Saturday, March 8, Palm Beach FL
Register in Gucci Courtyard – 256 Worth Avenue
9am Large Pets 36 # +, 9:30 am Medium Pets 16 – 35 # ,
10 am Small Pets up to 15 #. Contest begins at 9:30 am, judged
by local celebrities. Arrive early, wear flat, comfortable shoes, this
is a VERY popular (crowded) event. Pets AND their people dress to the nines.
(ref:www.havedog.com)
(Photo Roxies YZ Cyndi Lenz)

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