Are you prepared for Toad Time again?

 

 

 

 

 

 

It’s that time of the year when the old cane toad rears its head to frequent our landscape. Though usually hiding during the day, toads tend to appear in our yards once the sun begins to set, feeding on insects and the like. A dog does not need to consume a toad to be poisoned by it. Contact with the mouth, even a lick can be enough to expose them to the toad’s poison which is released from bulging glands on its shoulder. Toads also have the capacity to squirt their venom if they feel threatened.

If your dog is exposed, some initial symptoms include excessive salivation or foaming at the mouth. This usually occurs within the first few minutes of being in contact with the poison. Symptoms may advance to vomiting, red gums, rapid heart rate, tremors, spasms or convulsions after around 15 mins. The dog also may have difficulty cooling itself. Just as the body can experience involuntary muscle spasm or twitches, so can the heart (which is usually what takes a life when there is a fatality).

A dampened cloth or chux can be used to wipe around the inside of the lips and mouth. Keep rinsing it out in fresh water. This will help reduce the volume of poison present in the mouth. If using a hose to flush a dog’s mouth, use only the gentlest water pressure and ‘do not’ direct water towards the dog’s throat. Keep a close eye on your pet. If your pet is losing consciousness don’t use any running water as they will not be able protect their airways.

Should your dog escalate to involuntary muscle movement or loss of consciousness, you will need medical help fast. Your dog may require sedation and medications to help his heart to return to normal. In cases where a dog’s life has been taken due to cane toad poisoning it mostly happens within approx. 40 mins.

Leah & Angela O’Meara

Hound Dog Day Care (Specialists in Dog Minding & Dog Boarding, Pet Sitting Brisbane & Doggy Day Care Brisbane)