Serious Warning About Toxic Toads In Tampa

Serious warning about toxic toads in Tampa.  It's that time of year again, when we start hearing more stories about dogs getting sick and even dying because they encountered Bufo toads.    You need to keep your eye on your pets this time of year…The toads are all over Florida and the Tampa Bay Area.

If your dog gets ahold of a toxic toad and picks them up or even licks them, it can be deadly to them.  You must act quick because the reaction is immediate.  Dogs can start to seizing within the 20 seconds of contact of the toads.  Seizures are usually the first things that people notice, but you might notice some extra salivation beforehand. If you look at their gums and see that they’re bright red, that’s also one of the signs. but usually, they’ll start drooling. That is one of the first signs, maybe even before they start having seizures.  As dog owners ourselves, it's important to get the serious warning about toxic toads in Tampa out to other dog owners.  There are a lot of people who have moved to the area recently, and don't know they exist.

You must act fast.  First, wash the toxins forward out of the mouth using a hose.  Then, wipe the gums and tongue with a towel, and get your pet to the vet immediately.  You might have a chance of saving his life.  The toad secretes a toxin when it feels threatened, and if that toxin is ingested by your dog, it can be deadly in as little as 15 minutes.  That is why we get this information to you, a serious warning about toxic toads in Tampa.

Unfortunately, owners who let their dogs outside and do not watch them find out when it is too late.  In 2020 the Florida Fish and Wild Life Commission reported there were about 2 dogs a day coming into Animal hospitals who have been exposed to Bufo Toads this time of year.

To help keep the toads off your property, you can cut your grass often and keep it short, as well as clear away brush piles.  Another idea is to use home made remedies like spraying vinegar around your yard.  It can help repel frogs and toads.   It is always important to check your yard before letting your pet out….and make sure you are watching your dog when it is outside.

There's something truly special about having a close relationship with your pet. They say a dog is "man's best friend," and it's totally accurate. I have friends and family who truly feel like their pets are a member of the family. Pets will be there for you through thick and thin. Pets are also know for being loyal, which can be a really good feeling in this world. So, what are the most popular dogs right now?

Danspetcare.com has a great article out that names the most popular dogs in the world right now. In it, they describe that special relationship that one has with their pet. "From hunting to sled-pulling to herding and protection, dogs have helped us survive and thrive in countless ways," they explain. "One of the most important roles dogs play in our lives is companionship."

So, what do you do if you're in the market for a new dog? Danspetcare.com has some good advice on how to pick the right breed. They explain that finding the right breed is a big part of that decision. So, ask yourself, do you want a delicate breed or a more meaty, masculine breed? Also, what's the purpose of you wanting a pet? Do you want a pet for protection, or are you looking for a small buddy for some companionship?

Either way, when you're in the market for a new pet, make sure to have lots of questions and ask the right people before settling on your little guy or gal. I remember one of my friends buying the cutest little puppy ever only to see it grow into a huge dog that was almost too big for her apartment. She loved him, but it was quite a surprise. Read on to discover the most popular dogs right now and some more stats. Find more via Danspetcare.com here

According to Danspetcare.com, the most popular dog in the world is the Labrador Retriever. "They’re often used to provide comfort and reassurance for anxious humans," the study says. So true. No. 2 are Golden Retrievers and No. 3 are German Shepherds. Find more via Danspetcare.com here.

Dogpackapp.com has an article out about the most popular dog breeds right now. No. 1 on the list is the French bulldog. Those dogs are adorable, right? No. 2 is the Labrador Retriever and No. 3 is the Golden Retriever. Very popular, of course. Find the full list here.

What about the most common dogs? According to A-z-animals.com, No. 1, again are Labrador Retrievers, followed by Bulldogs and Rottweiler. The German Shepherd and Dachshund round out the top five. Find the full list here.

What if you want a small pup? The smallest dog breed, according to Forbes.com is the Pomeranian at 3-7 pounds. So cute. It's followed by the Toy Poodle and Toy Fox Terrier. Find the full list here.

What if you want a really big dog? According to Forbes.com, the largest dog breed is the Mastiff at 120-230 pounds. It's followed by the Boerboel and Tosa Inu. Find the full list here.