3 minute read
Dorset View: Pets & Wildlife
Toad Patrol saves lives
With Ringwood and Poulner Toad Patrol mustering its volunteers into action as the weather warmed up, the patrollers have already helped hundreds of toads across the road.
The life-saving patrol will be busy assisting the amphibians to cross safely during their migration until the end of March.
Oblivious of the highway code, the night-time travellers often get killed or injured in their eagerness to reach their breeding ground at Blashford Lakes after spending the winter hibernating in hollows at the base of hedgerows. Ringwood and Poulner Toad Patrol volunteers give them the best chance of reaching the lakes to produce the next generation of spawn.
Being well-camouflaged, toads are hard to see by passing motorists who can accidentally squash them when driving along the road unless they slow right down and take care to avoid them.
Toad Patrol leader, Nicola Yorke, said, “Since starting in January, our volunteers have already helped hundreds of toads to cross an often busy road as they migrate to Blashford Lakes to breed – keeping them safe from being killed or injured by the wheels of cars and vans.
“We’re really grateful to the many drivers who slow down and stay patient as volunteers pick up the toads and carry them across the road.
“Toads are sadly in decline across the country, so every life is precious.”
Former leader Teresa Baker who founded the local patrol 35 years ago is still active within the busy group. Volunteers are always being sought and can make contact via Ringwood and Poulner Toad Patrol’s Facebook page.
Alabama Rot - the unsolved mystery which remains a risk to dogs
By Lynwood Vets
Back in the winter of 2013, Duncan at Lynwood Vets was one of the first vets to identify cases of a deadly new disease associated with walking dogs in wet woodland and heaths. This became known as Alabama Rot and to date over 300 dogs have died from the disease. The only signs are sores on the feet, legs or head followed by a rapid deterioration caused by kidney failure. Sadly roughly 9 out of 10 dogs with the disease will die.
The disease was first noted in a small geographical area of the New Forest, and analysis of historical records show that the disease appeared out of nowhere. Despite ongoing research, the cause has not been identified and treatment options are extremely limited. The cases are particularly emotionally upsetting for owners as they usually involve relatively young, active and healthy dogs who die within a few days of exposure.
Studies have highlighted how the disease is strongly associated with access to wet areas of woodland during the winter months. It is a sensible precaution to thoroughly wash down your dog after walking in these areas and pay particular attention to any small cuts, however it is not known for certain that this helps prevent cases. If in any doubt, it is best to seek a vet’s opinion.
