With Rainy Weather Comes Poisonous Toads
Unfortunately, we South Floridians know very well about the rainy weather our beautiful unpredictable Sunshine State throws at us. With the downpour comes plenty of water and plenty of pesky Cane Toad’s aka Bufo Toad’s. We at Lakeside Animal Hospital love all creatures big and small and truly kid when we say pesky. We just want to raise awareness that Bufo Toads truly pose a danger to our pets by teaching our community what a Cane Toad looks like and the signs of toad poisoning. Knowing these important facts will not only prove that you are a true South Floridian but will also potentially save your pet’s life.
How to spot them
- Reddish-brown to grayish-brown in color
- Light-yellow or beige belly
- Enlarged glands behind the eyes that angle down to the shoulders
- 6 to 9 inches in length
- Do not have ridges across the head, that’s a southern toad
What to do if your pet bites or swallows a Bufo toad
Symptoms may include:
- Frantic or disoriented behavior
- Brick red gums
- Seizures
- Foaming at the mouth
What to do:
- Call your vet immediately!
- Wash toxins forward out of the mouth for ten minutes being careful not to direct water down the throat
- Wipe gums/tongue with a dish towel to remove toxins
- Get your pet to the Veterinarian!
How to keep them off your property
Remove places where cane toads or their prey can hide or seek shelter:
- Cut your grass regularly and keep it short
- Fill in any holes around structures
- Trim the underside of shrubs
- Keep branches or riprap off the ground
- Clear away brush piles
- Remove clutter
Remove food that can attract cane toads and their prey:
- Feed pets indoors when possible
- Bring outdoor pet food and water bowls indoors at night
- Clean up any food scraps from pet bowls or outside tables and grills
Contact us at Lakeside Animal Hospital for more information on poisonous toads and your pets.
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