Toad Poisoning in Dogs – Exposure to toad toxins can be a severe matter for dogs. Toad poisoning in dogs is an emergency that needs quick treatment. Toads make a white, thick, creamy liquid as a protecting process. When a dog comes into contact with this toxin, it may experience cardiac, gastrointestinal, and neurological signs. This blog aims to offer complete information on the symptoms and treatment of Toad Poisoning in Dogs.
Causes of Toad Poisoning in Dogs
Toad poisoning in dogs is caused by exposure to the toxins made by two species of Bufo toads. Bufo toads, also well-known as cane toads, are most lively throughout the breeding season (March to September), and various conditions of toad poisoning in dogs appear in the spring and summer. The toads make a white, thick, creamy liquid as a defensive mechanism. However, this toxin is made in big parotid glands near the eyes and smaller glands in the toad’s body.
Bufo toads make various toxins that can cause cardiac, gastrointestinal (GI), and neurological symptoms in dogs if they come in contact with them. These toxins can recirculate in the liver many times, causing clinical signs to last for a vast period, otherwise called enterohepatic recirculation. Toads are large, slow-moving creatures, making them unsafe for cats and dogs. However, dogs may become intoxicated by licking or sniffing the toads. Toad eggs, Toads, and tadpoles are all known to be poisonous when sniffed. Moreover, toads that remain in water bowls for too long leave behind ample toxins to endanger animals that drink the water.
Symptoms of Toad Poisoning in Dogs?
Clinical symptoms caused by Bufo Toad Poisoning in Dogs can be different, depending on how much the dog was exposed to and if the dog has any other existing health issues. Some dogs are lucky to only have mild, local symptoms, whereas other dogs may develop life-threatening cases. Cardiovascular, gastrointestinal (GI), and neurological diseases are among the severe effects that might appear.
Symptoms like pawing at the mouth, head shaking, hypersalivation, and retching may be seen quickly. GI symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea are common and are frequently evident quickly, or in 15 minutes. Acute cardiac issues, including hypertension, palpitations, and tachycardia, may develop in 15 minutes or 4 hours after toxin exposure. Neurologic symptoms, including seizures and tremors, may occur 15-20 minutes after toxin exposure. Here are some symptoms of Toad Poisoning in Dogs –
- Pawing at the mouth
- Redness and irritation around the mouth
- Red mucous membranes
- Tremors
- Seizures
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Drooling/hypersalivation
- Tachycardia (elevated heart rate)
- Arrhythmias
How To Diagnose Toad Poisoning in Dogs?
A complete history is necessary to identify toad poisoning in dogs. Be sure to tell your veterinarian when you think your dog was suffering from Bufo toads and what signs you have seen. A complete physical examination will be done along with diagnostic tests to help in confirming toad poisoning in dogs and to rule out other possible causes of the signs. Tests that may be done to diagnose toad poisoning in dogs –
Complete blood count (CBC) -CBC is done to assess for infection, anemia, and dehydration.
Biochemical profile – To assess organ function and to look for electrolyte abnormalities.
Electrocardiography (ECG) – The Electrocardiography (ECG) technique is used to evaluate for cardiac arrhythmias, as serious ventricular arrhythmias are common due to exposure to the toxin in Bufo toads.
Because the Bufo toad toxins do not gather or remain in organs, testing for them is not helpful or advised.
Treatment for Toad Poisoning in Dogs?
There is no particular antidote to toad poisoning in dogs, so treatment is concentrated on supportive care. If you see your dog has been exposed to Bufo toads, it is essential to seek veterinary care quickly, as toad poisoning in dogs is a medical emergency. Decontamination is important and may be life-saving. This is made up of removing the toad toxin from your dog’s mouth and skin. This can be done by cleaning your dog’s mouth and skin with cool water for 5-10 minutes. Once decontamination is finished, supportive care can be helpful. Supportive care for toad poisoning in dogs generally includes –
- Intravenous (IV) Fluid therapy – To correct dehydration and electrolyte abnormalities.
- Temperature regulation – Cooling measures to control normal body temperature if hyperthermia is present.
- Anti-seizure medication – To control seizures if they appear.
- Anti-arrhythmic therapy – To manage any cardiac arrhythmias that may exist.
- Anti-emetics – To manage vomiting if it exists.
We hope this information was useful, and if you have any questions, please consult your veterinarian.
FAQs Related To Toad Poisoning in Dogs
How long can dogs survive after toad poisoning?
Toads are poisonous in all the time of their life cycle, whether they as eggs or tadpoles. Their toxin can even flow into the water near them. The bufo toad can cause death in an average-sized dog in approximately 15 minutes.
What happens if a dog gets sprayed by a toad?
In serious cases, dogs can experience collapse, seizures, blindness, heart rhythm abnormalities, and even death. If you see your pet has come in contact with a toad, then immediately go to your local vet or emergency department if you see any of the above symptoms.
Why is a frog different from a toad?
Frogs have smooth and slimy skin. Toads have dry skin. Frogs have long legs for jumping. Toads have shorter legs to get around by crawling.
