Fungal Disease in Amphibians (Chytridiomycosis)

Chytridiomycosis

Chytridiomycosis is a serious infectious disease caused by Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis, a zoosporic fungus related to water molds. The fungus feeds on keratin, a protein found in the outermost layers of the skin, and survives in most environments, even without a host. It is believed that the decrease in the population of frogs in many areas is due to chytridiomycosis.

A common way to recognize chytridiomycosis is to check your amphibian's skin for sloughing or shedding. The disease can be fatal for amphibians left untreated. Therefore, owners suspecting chytridiomycosis in their amphibian must seek immediate veterinary care.

Symptoms and Types

An amphibian suffering from chytridiomycosis may shed excessively, develop thickened or pale skin and, in the cases of tadpoles, disfigured beaks. Other common symptoms or signs include:

• Lethargy

• Loss of appetite (anorexia)

• Constriction of the eye's pupil

• Abnormal posture of the hind legs

• Abnormal behavior and disposition

• Hyperemia (an increase in blood flow to different body tissues)

Some amphibians present no clinical symptoms of the disease, but are still infected with the Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis fungus. These animals are carriers of the disease.

Causes

Chytridiomycosis is due to an infection with the B. dendrobatidis fungus. Generally, amphibians contract the fungus through their skin while in contaminated water.

Diagnosis

Veterinarians diagnose the disease by examining skin scrapings or toe clips that are stained and put under a light microscope. Placing an infected animal in a shallow dish of water will often confirm the sloughing of skin, a common symptom for chytridiomycosis.

Treatment

To treat chytridiomycosis, your veterinarian will prescribe antifungal medication, such as itraconazol, which is usually diluted and administered as a bath. Supplemental treatment may include ultraviolet light therapy.

Living and Management

For unknown reasons, chytrid infections have a high mortality rate. Therefore, it is important you follow your veterinarian's instructions and provide a clean aquatic environment and an appropriate temperature range for your amphibian.

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small / exotic pet care

Toad Venom is Toxic to Dogs

Does your dog love exploring the outdoors?

Beware of sneaky stowaways! Certain toads, like the Colorado River Toad and Marine Toad, pose a serious threat to curious canines. Their toxic secretions can be life-threatening if not addressed immediately. Learn how to identify the signs of toad poisoning, take swift action, and keep your furry friend safe.

Symptoms of Toad Venom Poisoning

Symptoms usually appear within a few seconds of the toad encounter and may include the following:

• Crying or other vocalization

• Pawing at the mouth and/or eyes

• Profuse drooling of saliva from the mouth

• Change in the color of membranes of the mouth – may be inflamed or pale

• Difficulty in breathing

• Unsteady movements

• Seizures

• High temperature

• Collapse

Causes

• Living in proximity and coming into contact with toxic toads

• More commonly seen in animals that spend a lot of time outdoors and/or with a curious nature

Fast Diagnosis is Key: Saving Your Dog from Toad Toxin

Toad venom poisoning is a serious situation. Time is critical, so get your dog to the vet immediately. Be prepared to describe your dog's health history, the onset of symptoms, and any chance they might have encountered a toad (especially a Bufo toad).

The vet will perform a complete physical exam and likely run some tests, including blood work and a urinalysis. While these tests often come back normal, they may reveal high potassium levels (hyperkalemia). A telltale sign can be an abnormal heartbeat. If time allows, an electrocardiogram (ECG) can confirm an irregular heart rhythm, further supporting a toad venom poisoning diagnosis.

Treatment

Toad venom toxicity is an emergency with highly-likely fatal outcomes. Time remains a crucial factor in the survival of the affected animal. If you suspect that your dog has encountered a toxic toad, immediately take the dog to a nearby veterinary hospital for emergency treatment.

If in case of an emergency in our practicing area, please contact the following:

Animal ER - (941) 355-2884

Vet Care Express Animal Ambulance - (941) 592-5131

The first step is to flush the mouth with water. Body temperature will be regulated; a cool bath may be needed. Heart function and ECG will be monitored for abnormalities. Medications can control heart rhythm and saliva production. Anesthesia may be used for pain relief.

Living and Management

Continuous monitoring will be required until the dog is fully recovered. Your veterinarian will continuously record the heart's rhythms using ECG to evaluate your cat's response to the treatment patient. Patients that have been treated before enough of the toxin has had the chance to reach the system, within about 30 minutes, have a good chance of recovery. However, the overall prognosis is not good for most animals, and death is very common in dogs that have been exposed to toad venom.

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