The discoloration and weight loss could definitely have been caused by stress. Why not just get fecals tested for parasites? You don't need an appointment for that, you would just pay per fecal tested. Some of my tanks contain multiples of the same species, ie, one tank has six Fire Bellies, another tank has several European Green Frogs and another tank has several White's Tree Frogs living together. From time to time I will bring to the vet one stool sample from each tank and have them tested for parasites. If one of the samples is positive for parasites, I treat all of the frogs in that particular tank with Panacur. If one has parasites, all of his tank mates probably do, too.
Keep in mind not everyone has access to or the experience to be able administer fenbendazole or metronidazole. So more often than not, a vet is needed in this situation.
Very good point, Kurt. With my crew, it was critical that I learn to administer meds right from the get go. My vet had me give the meds every three weeks for a toadalof three doses and THEN repeat the fecals. Getting to the ve'is office involved a two-hour drive each way, so I had a BIG incentive to learn how to handle the meds on my own. Doing it myself saved me a lot of time and money.
Same here, except my vet is only 45 minutes to an hour away.
Would you recommend just taking in the little guy first, then maybe taking in the other 2 if the vet thinks they need it?
Good herp vets are very hard to come by, and even vets that claim to specialize in exotics don't have very much experience with frogs. That's why it's important to find one who is at least WILLING to treat frogs. After forming a relationship with one they usually work with you on the basics--you can overnight fecals, and they can overnight meds. At some point you will encounter more difficult medical situations with your herps, which is why it's important to hook up with an expert herp vet willing to do phone consults with your local herp vet who usually welcomes the opportunity to expand his knowledge. My herp expert is Keven Wright, DVM in Arizona. He is amazing and in addition to running his "strictly exotics" practice, he lectures all over the world and has authored books for the scientific community.
Mine is Greg Mertz DVM.
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