Lethargic tree frog-what's wrong

[reenie]

I've had a male and female red eyed tree frog for 2 years. In the past few days the female has not been her normal color-is darker than usual with mottled skin and has changed her behavior...more lethargic, spending a lot of time in the water bowl. She has been able to climb around. the "droppings" (for lack of a better word) look different, like the crickets haven't been fully digested. The reason I am not taking it to a vet is that I have never handled it, I think the handling would stress it out more, and the same was said to me by the person who sold me the frog who is knowledgable. What would a vet do in a case like this....can these frogs stand up to medical treatment? I'll try to post a picture too.

[Kurt]

Well, you're going to have to handle it to get it to the vet. There is no way this frog will get miraculously better on its own. Adult red-eyes will be ok going to the vet. So no worries there. Only froglets can't take it to well.

[Socrates]

Ya you need to bring that frog to the Vet. Especially if it is a fungal infection or parasite, that won't leave on its own. Just be sure when you transport it, put it in a container with some damp paper towel (or some moss from there vivarium) and place it in a cooler (keeps the temp constant) this will prevent the elements from putting them into a worse state. I would also highly recommend separating the male and female from one another. You don't want to sick frogs, hope all goes well for her.

[Kurt]

I would also take both frogs to the vet, since they are housed together.

[Socrates]

how foolish of me, yes bring both frogs like Kurt said.

[reenie]

thank you for the advice about the cooler and the moss, I was wondering how I would keep the temp. steady in and out of the car. I have an appt. later today.

[Kurt]

Good luck.

[daziladi]

The vet suggested using a wet paper towel folded in half to pick up a frog... it helps you keep a steady grip (is less slippery) and prevents the frogs skin from absorbing chemicals. I'm still squeamish handling a frog so I use a flat plastic handle thing and sort of coax Chester forward with it until he climbs aboard. I use the plastic container and lid from my electric vegetable steamer, it has built-in ventilation holes and holds the moisture in perfectly.

(Boyfriend purchased a new steamer since then, lol)