Anyone who has lived in South Florida
long enough has at some point come across the infamous Bufo Toad. These short legged stocky critters have a
pair of parotid glands behind each eye which secrete a toxic white substance. Most intoxication occurs when curious dogs
lick or bite into the toads distributing the toxin on to their gums. Almost
immediately dogs will begin to produce a copious amount of saliva and foam at
the mouth. If pets are found at this
point of the intoxication it is recommended that owners clean out their pets
mouth with cool water and a wash cloth, making sure not to direct the water at
the back of the mouth. In many
situations no further symptoms are seen and no further treatments are needed. However in severe intoxications pets may
begin to seizure and require immediate medical attention to prevent progression
of disease. This toxin is very fast
acting and most clinical signs are seen within 20-40 minutes of exposure, if no
signs are present after 1 hour of exposure it is less likely that pets will be
affected. If you have any questions or
concerns about your pet being exposed to a Bufo Toad, contact your local
veterinarian or the Hollywood Animal Hospital any time. 
Dr. Carlos Ameijeiras , D.V.M.- HAH Mississippi State, 2011
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