Hey everyone! I am getting my first place hopefully in the near future, and part of my excitement is being able to get new pets that my parents won't allow me to get while I'm living with them. I've always loved frogs and toads. I have had the typical backyard-caught toad and frog in a plastic cage that I'd later release, so I know a little about their care, but I understand having a full-time pet is much different, and I'm more than willing to learn.

Cutting to the chase, I have recently learned about cane toads, and I heard they make great pets. However, I've read a lot of mixed info about them, and would like to learn more about them before I run off and buy one. I figured you guys would be able to help me out, so if you don't mind, I have a couple of questions.

1. What kind of habitat do they need? I know they get to be pretty sizeable, and will most likely get a large terrarium with a heater pad, fake plants and a good bit of water, but what all terrarium-wise will I need to keep a cane toad happy?

2. Are they a solitary animal, or do they need to be kept in groups? I read mixed things, and though I'd prefer to start with 1, I will gladly get 2 or more if they need the company of other cane toads.

3. Do they like being handled? I know a toad most likely won't cuddle in my lap like a puppy, but I do like pets that I can at least hold. I read that they do recognize their humans and will be happy to see you, so I was just wondering if they like being held and loved on.

4. What is their diet like? I know they eat like a fat guy at a casino buffet, and that they eat crickets, meal worms, veggies, and they like dog food, but what would be a healthy diet for them? How often do they have to be fed without them becoming crazy big? (I'm not really looking to have a record-breaking toad, I only want it to stay normal size.)

5. I know they have poison glands, and can pose a risk to other animals and people, so is there any way to order one with the poison glands removed, or could I take it to a small animal vet and get the poison glands removed? I won't be worried, and will understand completely if you can't, but I have a small dog, and plan on getting a new puppy to keep him company, and while of course I wouldn't let the dogs and toad have any interaction, I'd just hate to have something happen to my dog if they were to by some strange means cross paths.

6. Where would be a good place to get one? I found a website, Backwater Reptiles, and I think there might be a local pet store that can at least order them, but I just want to make sure I get it from a reputable place.

7. Is there anything else you think I should know before I dive into the world of cane toad ownership?

Thank you all so much ahead of time for your time and advice =)