But any dog may become territorial and bite a toad. Marine toads will climb into outdoor food bowls to eat leftovers, and this leads to biting incidents. Symptoms of toad poisoning in dogs include drooling, head-shaking, vomiting, crying, loss of coordination, and, in more serious cases, convulsions, Stelling said. The dog's gums often turn red, one of the indicators veterinarians use to identify toad-poisoning cases. For that reason, dog owners should be familiar with normal gum color.
Treatment is usually successful.
If you suspect toad poisoning, get a hose and flush water in the side of the dog's mouth, pointing the animal's head downward so water isn't swallowed. While flushing, remove toxin by rubbing the gums and inside of the mouth until they no longer feel slimy. And call your vet immediately. Hostetler said marine toads likely could not survive freezes in North Florida, but they are established on both Florida coasts, raising questions about possible expansion inland, or into other coastal areas. Toads may be transported accidentally, and pet owners may turn them loose.