by Aris Jameson

Created on: August 30, 2008   Last Updated: April 03, 2010

While most owners know that things like chocolate, raisins, and onions can harm dogs, few are aware of additional insidious sources that can seriously injure or even kill their four-legged companions. In fact, one such source is the seemingly innocent toad.

It is important to remember that different species of toads vary in toxicity, but scientists have found that the CANE and BUFO toads present the most dangerous threat to dogs. Both cane and bane toads (which can be found in many Southeastern states and Central American nations) feature small parotid glands on the back of their heads. Produced in these glands are large levels of a thick, white poison (also known as bufotoxin) that are secreted by the toad if it feels threatened. Once secreted, these toxins instantly attack the nervous and cardiovascular systems of any predator who bites or licks the toad.

A dog who bites a cane or bufo toad will immediately show signs of being poisoned, which include but are not limited to: loss of balance, stumbling, drooling, foaming at the mouth, seizing, and vomiting. If not treated properly, a dog can die as soon as ten minutes after being exposed to the toxin.

TREATMENT

If your dog collapses or seizes, seek immediate help from a veterinary professional. The venom secreted by these toads will first reach the dog's brain and, in three to five minutes, will attack the heart and constrict the blood vessels. While on your way to the veterinarian's office, try to splash some water into the dog's mouth to wash out the poison. Do not worry if your dog swallows the water, for this will flush the toxins through its system quicker. VERY IMPORTANT: Do not give your dog any food or liquid other than water.

If your dog stumbles a bit and wheezes, but is still able to stand, try rinsing both the inside and outside of the mouth with running water from a hose. It is ok to offer your dog some crushed ice chips if he or she starts feeling better, but avoid any food or liquid besides water for at least a half an hour. If conditions do not improve within ten minutes, or your dog continues to wheeze, seek immediate veterinary help.

PREVENTION

Both cane and bufo toads are nocturnal animals and generally like to come out after a recent rainstorm when the ground is moist. So try to walk your dog during the day, and if he or she must go out at night, use a leash or walker. Also, survey your property prior to letting your dog outside to ensure there are no toads it may be tempted to sniff. If your dog does encounter a toad, immediately pull it away and relocate the toad to an area where it will not threaten your dog. REMEMBER, even licking or contacting a small amount of venom can adversely affect a dog. If you are unsure of whether or not your dog has actually been bitten by a cane or bufo toad, take the same precautions. Many other toad species produce enough venom to kill a dog, so don't take any chances if your dog displays signs of being poisoned.

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