Tampa Bay’s Hometown Morning Krewe

Weekdays 6:00AM - 10:00AM

This is the time of the year that you need be on the lookout for bufo toads. So, make sure you protect your pets from them because one lick of the toad can kill your pet.

The bufo toads are moving into Florida by the thousands. They secrete a milky-white toxin from glands on the back of their heads that can be deadly for pets. Bufo toads are big as they can reach the size of a plate, but are poisonous for their whole life.

If your pet licks a bufo toad it can kill them in as little as 15 minutes. The way to spot a bufo toad is by its reddish-brown to grayish-brown color. It is light-yellow or beige belly and has enlarged glands behind the eyes that angle down to the shoulders. They do not have ridges across the head as that is a southern toad.

So, if your pet has licked the toad they may show frantic or disoriented behavior, brick red gums, have seizures or be foaming at the mouth. Here are a few things to do if your pet has licked the toad: wash toxins forward out of mouth using a hose for 10 minutes being careful not to direct water down the throat, wipe gums/tongue with dish towel to remove toxins and take your dog to the vet.

If you have come in contact with the toad you will need to wash you hands thoroughly. If you need to move one make sure you wear gloves when handling them.

So, obviously the best way to protect your pets from bufo toads is to not let your pets near them.

 

 

7 Ways To Celebrate July 4th Around Tampa That's Not A Firework Show

  • Hot Dog Eating Contest

    I can’t think of anything more American than a hot dog eating contest. Armature Works in Tampa is hosting a limited competition starting at 4 p.m.. Spots are first come first serve, so if you want to show off your glizzy eating skills, be sure to get there early!

    Price: Starts at $25

  • July 4th Patriotic Boat Parade & Blessing of the Fleet

    Join the Lost Pearl on the Fourth of July to be part of an exciting and patriotic boat parade like no other! Wear your favorite patriotic gear or pirate garb to celebrate. Tickets include 1 hour 15 minute cruise, front-row seats for the boat parade, pirate-themed cruise, cash bar & snacks. There are two different cruise times:
    Cruise 1 | Boarding: 4:45 PM, Sail Time: 5:00-6:15 PM
    Cruise 2 | Boarding: 6:30 PM, Sail Time: 6:45-8:00 PM

    Dock location: 333 S Franklin St, Tampa, FL 33602
    Price: Adults and Children: $30 plus tax, marine fee, and $5 gratuity. Infants (under 2) are free!

  • Fourth of July Circle of Heroes/ Veterans Reef Dive

    Explore the seas with Narcosis Scuba Center in Tarpon Springs and dive under to see the The Circle of Heroes/Veteran’s Reef. There will be a trip at 6 a.m. and noon!

    Price:
    $129.95 Divers (Ages 12+)
    $119.95 Bubblewatchers (All Ages)
    $119.95 Snorkelers All Ages (Snorkel Only)

  • Independence Day at the History Center

    Costumed reenactors representing several eras of American military history will be at the History Center to interact with guests. Included with admission, guests will also be able to see the exhibit, “American Flags: The Stars and Stripes in American History and Culture, Presented by Bank of America,” which is at the History Center until July 29.

    Bank of America cardholders will receive free admission for the individual named on the card. All other visitors will receive $5 admission to the History Center’s exhibit galleries, with extended hours until 7 p.m.

    Check out the website for more info!

  • Red, White and Bee you Party: Fourth of July Celebration

    This event is made for families! There will be dancing, open play, craft activities and balloon drop for this July Fourth Celebration in Palm Harbor! The best part is that it’s free! There are 3 party times available:
    Party #1: 9 a.m. – 10 a.m.
    Party #2 : 10 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
    Party #3: 12 p.m. – 1 p.m.

    Check out their Facebook event for more details!

  • Red, White and Brew 5K

    A fun start to your holiday celebrations (and a way to work off those hot dogs you’ll eat later.) Come out to the Lakeland town center for pancakes, great running, and even a Kids Firecracker Dash. Those participating in the race will receive a fun finisher’s medal, complimentary root beer, and a brew!

    Location: 1523 Town Center Dr, Lakeland, FL
    Registration is $25. Visit the Facebook event page for more details!

  • St. Pete Run the Fourth

    Kick off your 4th of July celebrations with St Pete Run the 4th! This 5K fun run showcases the amazing St Pete Pier and St Pete’s scenic waterfront. The race is not timed so feel free to stroll around St. Pete and take in all the sights! Each runner will receive a patriotic run bib, and food from Bolay Fresh Bold Kitchen and Astro ice cream included in the entry fee.

    Tickets are $20, you can register here.