Toad and Salamander poisoning and dogs

There are two species of poisonous toads in the United States: the Colorado River toad, found in the Southwest and Hawaii; and the marine toad, found in Florida. There is one species of poisonous salamander: the California newt, found in California. All toads, even the ones that aren’t poisonous, have a bad taste. Dogs who mouth them slobber, spit, and drool. This does not necessarily mean the dog has been poisoned. Toxicity depends upon the virulence of the toad or salamander venom, the size of the dog, and the amount of poison absorbed. The marine toad, for example, is highly poisonous, causing death in as few as 15 minutes. Symptoms can vary from slobbering to convulsions, blindness, and death. Puppies and small dogs are more likely to develop toxicity. Treatment: Repeatedly flush the dog’s mouth using a garden hose, if necessary, and induce vomiting. Be prepared to administer CPR. Dogs with salamander poisoning generally recover quickly.

comments