It’s Bufo Toad Season: Take Care With Your Dogs

If you live in Florida or are planning a trip down to the Sunshine State with your dogs, it is important to be aware of the lurking threat of cane toads (more commonly known as Bufo toads).

Bufo toads become more prevalent during the humid summer months when there is a lot of rain. They can be found hopping around in yards, parks, streets and even pools.

They are larger in size than most toads, usually measuring between six and nine inches long. These toads tend to come out more in the evening, night and morning hours when the ground is damp, but they can be found any time of the day.

Cane toads are dangerous for dogs because of the poison glands they have on their backs. When a Bufo toad feels threatened, these glands secrete a white substance that is toxic not only to dogs, but to pets of any kind.

If your dog licks or gets ahold of a cane toad, you will want to take them to a veterinarian immediately. The toxin produced by Bufo toads can cause your dog to become very sick. Depending on the level of exposure, the toxin can lead to seizures and heart problems, and in some cases, it can be fatal.

The Bufo toads were originally introduced to the United States back in 1936 as a natural pest control for Florida’s sugar cane fields, but they have quickly become an invasive species. They can also be found in Texas, Hawaii and Louisiana.

It’s best to always be extra cautious when outdoors with your pet during these rainy summer months.

To learn more about the dangers of toads for dogs, check out: Toad Venom Toxicosis in Dogs

Image via Johan Larson/Shutterstock.com

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