The Dangers of Poisonous Toads In Andalucia

One Dog’s Short Life by Frances Wilson-Barnes

Kipper, the Jack Russell was just eleven months old when he came across a toad in our garden but 6 hours later he was dead. In true terrier style he had tried to play with a Toad, we called him away unaware that this encounter could endanger his life. Half an hour later Kipper went into fit- like convulsions. We rushed him to our local vet, Dr Tomas Hinz, who sadly was unable to save him.

“If Kipper had been a bigger dog he would have had a better chance” said Tomas of Clinica Veterinaria Mediterranea in Sabinillas.

“In eight years of practice here I have only seen four confirmed cases of toad poisoning in dogs but I am sure that the real number is far higher than this,” continued Tomas.

“The symptoms of toad poisoning are the same as for many other toxins such as rat poison. Many clients bring in their dogs not knowing what has caused the poisoning. I think that in many of these cases toads could have been responsible,” he said.

“I treated a Boxer some years ago for toad poisoning who survived only after four days of intensive treatment. But just one week before Kipper died a Yorkshire Terrier puppy also died following contact with a toad” explained Tomas.

“Larger breeds stand a greater chance of survival” he said.

Andalucia Life readers who attended the ADANA Dog Show 2007 may remember Kipper. He was one of a pair of Jack Russells who won the prize for “Most Elegant Couple” with his friend, Spike. Even if it’s now too late for Kipper hopefully the following advice and information will help save some other dog’s life.

Toads Species

There are 7 types of Toads that can be found in Andalucia all of which are poisonous but the “true toads” of the Bufo family are generally considered to be the most toxic. Toads range in size from 2 – 25 cm (1 – 10 inches). The poison is located in the raised area behind the eyes, known as the parotid gland. Poison is also present in the warts found on the toad’s skin. The toad secretes poison when it feels threatened. Toads are nocturnal creatures from the Amphibian group of animals; they live on the land but breed in water. The toad will often burrow itself underground and remain there for long periods of time, particularly during droughts or very cold weather. They are more likely to be seen at night and in wet weather conditions.

What Are the Symptoms of Toad Poisoning?

The affected dog may show some or all of the following symptoms after mouthing or biting a toad:

What To Do If you Suspect Toad Poisoning?

It is vital to get prompt treatment for your dog. Try to be at your veterinary surgery within 15 minutes as this can make a life saving difference. If you cannot be at your vet within this time because you live in a remote area, speak to your local veterinarian about keeping an antitoxin medication at home.

Keep your pet cool, they can overheat when convulsing.

If the dog is having a seizure handle it with caution, the dog may not recognize its owner and could unknowingly bite.

Are Cats Or People At Risk From Toad Poisoning?

It is extremely rare for cats to succumb to toad poising but not impossible. Cats seem to be more aware of the threat posed by these amphibians and tend to stay away. However if you were concerned that your cat had been in contact with a toad the same procedure as for dogs would apply.

In humans, toad toxin exposure is not considered hazardous but it can cause severe irritation to the eyes, nose and throat. The use of rubber gloves is recommended when handling a toad.

True or False?

An old wives’ tale claims that if you touch a toad you will become infected with warts. This is false, warts are caused by an internal viral infection, entirely unconnected to toads.

Is Any Particular Type/Breed of Dog More At Risk From Toad Poisoning?

Any dog that mouths or bites a toad is at risk from its poison. The inquisitive nature of all puppies therefore makes them particularly vulnerable. Also the smaller the dog, the more likely the toxin is to kill (based on body mass ratio to toxin). Terrier types and hunting dogs are at greater risk because by their very nature, they will search out small creatures to chase or play with.

How To Help Protect Dogs From Toads?

Carefully remove any toads from your garden and release them in open countryside, preferably near a river or dry riverbed. The Natterjack Toad and the Iberian Midwife Toad are both protected species threatened by habitat loss. Toads are an important part of the ecological system that eats small insects and grubs; it’s not their fault that they are poisonous!

On rainy evenings consider keeping your dog on the lead or take him out with a humane muzzle on so that he cannot mouth the toad.