DR. DOLITTLER
Welcome to South Florida -- and watch out!
Posted on Sun, Jul. 06, 2008
By DR. PATTY KHULY
Q:I just moved to Miami and I need to get acquainted with all the health hazards my 6-month-old mutt Fuzz and my 8-year-old cat Zoolander might encounter. I've been told to be careful about taking Fuzz out since he looks a little like a pit bull, and I hear that lizards are a big deal for cats who eat them. And what is this I hear about poison frogs?
A: South Florida is unique in a lot of ways, not least for offering a plethora of ways in which pets can get into trouble. Here are some risks:
• Heat. Pets that spend any time outdoors are likely to have some extra trouble acclimating to the year-round heat. Never, ever leave your pet unattended in your car.
• Toads. No, we don't have poison frogs but large Bufo toads that ooze a deadly toxin. Most cats leave them alone. Seek immediate attention for the seizures that typically result. Rinse your pet's mouth before you rush him to the vet.
Lizards. Your cat's predilection for prey will likely lead him to attack lizards. If he eats the muscle, a parasitic infection of the liver (liver flukes) may result. Your vet can check for and treat these.
• Plants. The most serious local plant toxin is contained in the dreaded palm berries of certain species. In the worst cases, a fatal liver toxicity may result.
• Fleas and ticks. It's a year-round thing, so prepare for the potential invasion.
• Intestinal parasites. They run rampant here. Year-round checks and monthly prevention are a must.
• Heartworms. Monthly treatment is mandatory.
• Hurricanes. As inevitable as death and taxes. Plan your storm strategy now.
• Animal control. If your dog even slightly resembles a pit bull you are likely in violation of the asinine Miami-Dade County pit bull ban. Ask your vet about your dog's risk (how pit is he?) and help us work to ban this breed ban.
Dr. Patty Khuly practices in South Miami and blogs at www.dolittler.com. Send questions to drkhuly@dolittler.com, or Dr. Dolittler, Tropical Life, The Miami Herald, 1 Herald Plaza, Miami, FL 33132
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