Poisonous Toads in Spain

Bufo Bufo - The Common Toad

I had this e-mail from a friend who is also in Spain.

PLEASE READ THIS AND PASS IT ON TO ANYONE YOU THINK MAY NOT BE AWARE OF THE DANGER.

I am looking after 2 dogs for friends of mine, while they are away from home for 3 days.
Yesterday evening, I stopped one of the dogs, a West Highland Terrier, from "pestering" a toad in the garden.

30 to 40 mins later THE DOG HAD DIED from the effects of the poisonous toxins sent out from the frightened toad.

PLEASE , look up the facts and be aware of the dangers of this problem.

How awful for my friend, for the poor little dog and devastating for the dogs owner.

I checked on the internet and found this :

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:

• Drooling, head shaking, pawing at the mouth, crying .
• Attempting to vomit, vomiting, diarrhoea.
• Loss of coordination, irregular heartbeat, difficulty in breathing,
• Convulsions, foaming at mouth, tightly clamped jaws.

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.

There are only two types of toad in the UK and I don't think there is such a great risk, but have read that they are toxic, so any contact with dogs especially small ones should be avoided.