What To Do If My Dog Licks or Eats a Toad?

Dogs are curious creatures – as a result, every time your pooch is outside, they will use any opportunity to explore and roam. This wouldn’t be such a bad thing, of course, if they weren’t using their mouths and noses to do all the exploring. This is the way they get around the world, and they will often nibble or lick things that could be dangerous for them. This includes toads, which are common in many areas. While some species of toads are harmless, others can be toxic to dogs. As a caring owner, you should know how to respond quickly and properly, as it can make a big difference for your pet. 

What To Do If My Dog Licks or Eats a Toad?

First, it is essential to know why exactly toads are dangerous to dogs. There are certain toad species, such as the Colorado River Toad (Incilius Alvarius) and the Cane Toad or Bufo Toad (Rhinella Marina), that secrete toxins from their skin and they can cause severe reactions in pets.

These toxins can affect a dog's heart, nervous system, and gastrointestinal tract as well.

And while toxic toads are somewhat rare in areas that dogs commonly frequent, they nevertheless exist and there is always a chance of an encounter, however small. This is why you should know what the common symptoms of toad poisoning are in dogs. If they lick one, these symptoms might start showing within minutes. They are usually:

• Excessive drooling
• Pawing at the mouth
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Seizures
• Red and irritated gums
• Staggering and disorientation
• Rapid heart rate

In severe cases, if left untreated, toad poisoning can lead to death. Of course, it is imperative that you act quickly. If you see your pet with a toad, safely remove it from the area to prevent any further contact. Be careful as you handle the toad, and use gloves to avoid contact with the toxins. Then, as quickly as possible, rinse your dog’s mouth with water. Use a hose, faucet, or any available source of running water. In case you are outdoors and have no access to water, it is always important to carry a portable water container to ensure instant access to fresh, safe water for your pet. Direct water from the side of their mouth to avoid swallowing even more toxins than they did. Do not use force, as it can cause stress and aspiration.

It is equally important to stay calm and assess the situation. Monitor your pet closely for any symptoms and signs of distress. When you are calm, you can make better decisions and care for your pooch as well.

Needless to say, there are a number of things you can do to avoid any such incidents when you are out and about with your pet. You should certainly keep an eye on your dog when they are roaming in unknown areas, especially during the time when toads are most active, which is at dusk and dawn. You can also make your yard less inviting to toads by removing any standing water and keeping grass and vegetation neat and trimmed.

Ultimately, you can utilize a special toad-repellent spray that can keep your own yard toad-free, at least. It's a pet-safe product, so you don’t have to worry about your pet having a reaction to it, either. A win-win!