- November 23, 2024
-
-
Loading
Loading
by: Katie Share
Animal Services Division, Flagler Humane Society
What are some common wild animals in Florida, and how can they be dangerous to our domestic pets?
Let’s start with the invasive Burmese pythons. These are nonvenomous constrictors that have no natural predators. They have been introduced into the wild by their pet owners who underestimated their mature size. They have been left to multiply since their only predator is humans; they are hunted each year to keep the population under control. These snakes can reach up to 20 feet and can be fatal to other native wildlife and pets, such as dogs or cats.
Cane toads are another invasive species; they are harmful to other frogs, fish and insects. Also known as bufo toads, they can be most dangerous to dogs as they release a toxic substance when they are bitten. They are known to cause seizures in dogs.
We are all familiar with the “American trash panda,” the raccoon. They can be considered nuisance animals that carry rabies and other diseases that can be passed on to your pet. Rabid animals tend to become aggressive and can attack your dog while on a walk or if you have a free roaming cat. Diseases from raccoons can also be transmitted through fecal matter so your pet can be infected this way.
Armadillos can also be considered to be a nuisance as they cause traffic accidents and burrow into lawns. Their skin is a shell that acts as a natural armor, so they do not have many natural predators beyond humans and cars. They are known to carry leprosy, which is not harmful to your pet as much as it is harmful to the pet’s owner.
Then there is the Florida alligator. This is the wild animal that we most hear about in the news for harming our pets. There are an estimated 1.25 million gators in the state. There are many ways to keep your pets and yourself safe. Alligators are not made for running as they have small legs and large bodies. Simply walking or running away from them will keep you safe. Don’t walk your dogs along shorelines where the gators are known to sunbathe.
As Florida becomes more populated with humans, we are encroaching on the native wildlife’s homes and forcing them to come out more and be seen. Our pets become more curious, and this places them in harm's way. It is our responsibility as pet owners to be aware of the things in nature that can harm them.
