The living dead: Wood frogs across Alaska will soon be frozen solid

Their bodies cooling with the October air, wood frogs are now snug in leafy blankets all over Alaska.

Down there inside those thumb-size frogs, even smaller creatures are hitching a ride. These tiny parasites have the power to make frogs develop up to a dozen extra legs, or no legs at all.

Don Larson just defended his University of Alaska Ph.D. thesis on the fate of wood frogs that are at this moment becoming camouflage ice cubes. While taking a course in physiology of northern creatures, he became fascinated with the parasites attached to some wood frogs. How could a creature that leeches off another organism endure that animal freezing solid?

To read more on this story, click here: The living dead: Wood frogs across Alaska will soon be frozen solid

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Before Buying An Exotic Pet, Please Do Your Homework First

Whether they are hamsters, parrots or iguanas, exotic pets have specific veterinary needs. Don’t get an exotic pet until you read this first.

What is an exotic pet? Good question.

In my experience, it’s anything but a dog or a cat. That leaves a lot of fantastic creatures that people keep in their homes in between the “dog” and “cat” label.

Veterinarians usually specialize in large or small animal medicine. Large means, well, large, like cows and horses. Throw in the other ruminants — and don’t forget the poultry. “Small animal medicine” means dogs and cats.

To read more on this story, click here: Before Buying An Exotic Pet, Please Do Your Homework First

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Exotic Pets: How to Care for Some of the Most Unique Pets

Exotic animals seem like fun, interesting pets. Many people have considered becoming an exotic pet owner, but don’t know much about how to care for these unique creatures. GCVS wants potential pet owners to know what they are signing up for before bringing home an exotic pet!

RODENT AND SMALL MAMMAL CARE

Rodents and small mammals can make great pets if they are properly cared for. Common exotic rodents and small mammals include hedgehogs, sugar gliders, ferrets, and chinchillas. Specifically designed habitats are available for many of these animals that will keep them safe and secure in your home. Owners will need to make sure that these habitats stay secure and clean. Most rodents need nesting materials, which can be purchased at reputable stores.  Nesting material that separates easily into thin strands (cotton, wool, fluffy bedding products, etc.) should not be used. Rodents often enjoy having things to climb on and through for entertainment as well. Note that some of these animals are nocturnal, so diligent research on the right rodent or small mammal for your lifestyle is necessary!

It is important that owners of small mammals and rodents understand the proper diet for your specific pet. Many of these animals require a special diet that contains all of the nutrients needed to keep the animal healthy. Improper diet can lead to numerous health issues, so a consultation with an exotic animal specialist should be considered for anyone who owns an exotic pet.

To read more on this story, click here: Exotic Pets: How to Care for Some of the Most Unique Pets

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An Alabama Man Makes Custom Hats for Toad

An Alabama man has found internet fame for his hat-making skills — not suited for humans, but for a toad that keeps frequenting his home.

So, he decided to put a hat on it.

“I have a background in art and design, but I’ve never made hats,” Newsome said. “I just sort of winged it, and used scissors to figure it out."

He said he folded together some foam paper, and placed his design on the amphibian’s head.

“It just sat there,” Newsome said. “[The toad] did not seem to mind, and I didn’t keep the hat on him for longer than the time it took to take a picture.”

He explained toads often come out to play in his area over the summer, but this one, which he named Mr. Toad, would keep showing up on his porch, and even made friends with his cat and dog.

Newsome said he eventually revisited the photos, and uploaded them to Imgur last week, where fans have now started commissioning him to make foam hats for their own pets.

"I’m sure I can make a few more," Newsome joked.

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