GotoAID Dogs - Toad Poisoning

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Toad Poisoning

All toads secrete mucous through their skin that can cause your pet to salivate if they make the mistake of licking or biting a toad. However there are 2 kinds of toads the Colorado river toad and the Marine toad which are highly poisonous. The poison can affect the heart and nervous system and can kill a pet in 30 minutes. It is crucial to give first aid and get immediate veterinarian assistance.

Symptoms

Salivating	Seizures
Paw at mouth	Collapse

Steps

Make sure to identify the toad to see if it is poisonous and collect it and take it to the vet for positive identification if possible Colorado River Toad - Olive green to dark brown in color, with small red spots on the back, smooth, shiny skin covered in warts, cream-colored belly and it has one to two warts on the corners of its mouth and large raised warts on its rear legs Marine Toad - Brown skin, flat heads, cream spots and are 9 1/2 inches long

If you see your dog bite a toad or put one in his mouth immediately rinse his mouth with a garden hose or sink sprayer for 3-5 min

After rinsing your dog's mouth get him to the vet immediately

Watch for signs of shock like pale gums and glazed eyes and if he is going into shock, cover with warm blanket if cold. Apply cold compresses to the chest and abdomen if hot.

Keep his head elevated to help him breathe easier and prevent him from choking if he vomits

Seek immediate veterinary care and prepare to administer CPR if needed

Warnings

DO NOT allow the dog to swallow the water while rinsing, instead rinse from the side of the mouth instead of the front

DO NOT hesitate to consult with or take him to the vet as toads can be deadly to dogs

Tips

A poisoned dog can develop seizures, collapse, and die within 30 minutes

A dog does not have to bite the toad to get the poison even picking it up in his mouth or licking will do

Monitor & treat for signs of shock: weakness, collapse, pale or grey colored gums, irregular breathing, high heart rate, weak pulse and body temperature changes (e.g. very cold or very hot)

DO NOT administer any human medications by mouth to your pet

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