Junkie Dogs Chasing A High

JUNKIE DOGS CHASING A HIGH
18.2.2005. 16:46:51



Dogs in Australia’s Northern Territory are becoming addicted to a hallucinogenic cane toad poison, according to local vets.

Desperate for a canine high, dogs have been seen licking the backs of cane toads for a poison secreted from glands.

Megan Pickering, a veterinarian in the town of Katherine, claims to have seen many cases of dogs affected by the deadly toad poison.

"There seems to be dogs that are licking the toxin to get high,” she told the local newspaper.

"They lick the toads and only take in a small amount of the poison — they get a smile on their face and look like they are going to wander off into the sunset."

She said she has recently treated dozens of dogs suffering from the effects of bufo toxin.

Ms Pickering said she believes some of the dogs are becoming addicted as she has seen some "going back to have a second go".

"It seems some of them have tasted it in small doses but there are others that have had more toxin and come in fully-fitting.”

"But (despite this) they go on to do it again and again — they seem to have worked it out."

Evidence of ‘tripping’ dogs includes fitting, running in circles, with bright red gums and/or frothing at the mouth.

Wildlife officers have advised owners to wash their pet’s mouth out with water as quickly as possible.

They say they get more inquiries about safeguarding pets from the toad than on any other aspect.

Owners are advised to keep dogs and cats inside at night, warn and train them against tackling toads, and keep toads out of the yard.


SOURCE: World News