03/21/2026
Once the rain comes, the usual suspects come hopping around 🐸. This could be a harmless fellow, or a member of the insidious Bufos marinus (commonly known as bufo toads, cane toads, marine toads, giant toads, or neotropical toads).
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When in doubt—keep your furry friends away from toads. Licking, mouthing, or consuming the toxins these toads secrete can cause cardiac and neurotoxicity in dogs. The most commonly observed initial clinical sign will be hypersalivation after mucosal contact with the toxin.
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If you suspect your dog has come in contact with a toxic toad: separate dog and toad right away. Get your dog inside and get a damp towel, or damp clean rag, and use this to wipe the gums. Vigorous flushing of the mouth with a hose or faucet has also been recommended as long as the water is not pushed down the dog’s throat.
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Once you complete initial decontamination, observe your dog. If additional clinical signs develop like seizures, retching, and/or persistent agitation, call the Vet Duty Phone for further guidance.
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We have the pleasure of sharing this installation with so many interesting critters. Some of them just request a bit more space than others. We hope everyone and their furry friends are staying safe and dry!
