What to do...deformed Tree frogs

[Ebony]

Ive taken in two more Southern bell Frogs (litoria raniformis) They morphed about a month ago. 3cm. They were in with allot of others and were getting bitten by the normally formed frogs. I knew they had to be separated. They seem to be getting around OK and manage to catch flies. Im prepared to look after them and feed them by hand but im wondering if its cruel. Looking at them it seems to be the thigh that looks too short so they can't fold in their legs. I just felt sooo sorry for them.

[Paul Rust]

You have a heart for these animals, I know how you feel. If you are prepared to keep them for their lifetime that would be fine since they are eating. If it were me I would quarantine them and nurse them to health and make them a wonderful home like your other frogs have and just enjoy them. They are cuties! If you can't keep them then the responsible thing to do is euthanize them. I applaud you for ending their suffering at the hands of their kin, regardless the outcome.

[Wembley]

Good luck with that decision.

[PsionicRat]

With animals in my care I'll take quality over quantity any day. If they're eating, they're likely quite happy. Give them time, work out an environment that caters to their special need and pay close attention to their personalities. If they are suddenly lethargic, unwilling to eat or otherwise less responsive than you feel is healthy for longer than you feel is healthy.. then.. do what must be done. It's a hard decision but then you never know, they may live long, healthy lives with a bit of help from you.

I've had to decide on my unfair share of euthanasia, so I know it's hard. I wish the best for them. They *are* awfully cute.

[Ebony]

Thanks for your input. I am prepared to look after them, I just hope im doing the right thing for them. I will make sure their home is full of moss and no area's that they could hurt them selves. When they jump they use their arms to support the landing more than the legs. They do have a water dish at the moment and are climbing in and out of it OK.

[Ebony]

NW Amphibian Rescue, Thank you for your kind words. These little guys need a chance.

Im just curious, but how do you euthanize frogs?

[Paul Rust]

An overdose of Tricaine methanesulfonate (MS-222). It can be injected in the abdominal cavity or simply added to the water for aquatic species. Most online pet supply stores sell it. It sounds bad but you can use decapitation because it is quick as long as you don't hesitate once you start. Some people freeze the animal but there is no proof that this is painless. Here is a good guideline to follow if you must euthanize. The last thing you want is an animal you loved and cared for to be flopping around on the table as it dies.

CHECKLIST FOR A HUMANE DEATH:

The person applying the method of euthanasia is THE most important factor in ensuring that an animal's death is humane. Regardless of whether the procedure is applied to an individual animal or to a group, it must always attempt to meet the following criteria:

1) Death without signs of panic, pain or distress;

2) Minimum time to loss of consciousness;

3) Reliability and reproducibility;

4) Safety for personnel involved;

5) Minimal undesirable physiological and psychological effects on the animal;

6) Minimal or no emotional effects on the person involved;

7) Minimal environmental or ecological impact;

8) Simple, inexpensive method which is relatively maintenance free; and;

9) A location remote and separate from the animal rooms.

I hope this helps, but it is a very last resort and not a convenience tool.

[John]

Freezing is not a humane way to euthanize amphibians. If you wish to euthanize amphibians, this is by far the best information online: Caudata Culture Articles - Euthanasia

[Ebony]

Well here's hoping im never faced with that. I think these guys are going to be just fine. I will keep you updated on their progress. I have to give them names. Any ideas for ones so unique???

I had my cat 20 years old that I had to euthanize and I had a vet come to my house to do it so it wouldn't course any stress on him. It was the best thing i had ever done it was very human and no stress to my cat at all.Just a quick injection and he was asleep on my lap. I think if im ever faced with euthanizing a frog i will get the vet to come here. I would of course show him this information because I don't think he has ever put a frog to sleep. Thanks for all your advise guys.

[Paul Rust]

Well here's hoping im never faced with that. I think these guys are going to be just fine. I will keep you updated on their progress. I have to give them names. Any ideas for ones so unique???

Sorry about the kitty.
I will offer up a name. PHILOMENA (Loved)

[Wembley]

Ju"bell"ee Sorry I like lame names