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Dogs and Toad question

Posted by eclectic_gardener Plano (My Page) on
Fri, Jun 29, 07 at 17:02

Hello everyone,
I have three large breed dogs, I also now have thousands of new tadpoles in my small pond. I was wondering how significant the danger to my dogs might be. My neighbor has toads that have now made their way into my back yard. If anyone could help us identify the species it would be helpful as well. (my neighbor refuses to give us this information) They sound like a jackhammer or what may be described as a loud riveting sound. They only seem to do this a couple of times a year, then they just seem to vanish. We saw them, but regretfully, we neglected to take a picture. We live in Plano Texas. I am appreciative for any and all help. Thanks
EG


Follow-Up Postings:

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RE: Dogs and Toad question

Hi EG,

Why would you think the toads would be a danger to your dogs? We have a small pond, and several adult toads in the yard, and I tend to worry more about the danger my dog is to the toads. The standard Eastern American Toad makes the sound you mentioned. Here's a link to a couple of recordings. Isn't it cool having them around?
carol

Here is a link that might be useful: american toad songs


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RE: Dogs and Toad question

What do you mean about your neighbor? Are they introducing something that they shouldn't into the local environment?


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RE: Dogs and Toad question

Most toads that secrete toxin from their skin (and there is a variety in Texas that is introduced and has overpopulated after it took care of the problem it was introduced for) at any rate, most dogs will put a toxic toad in it's mouth once and only once. The dog will froth at the mouth and behave strangely running and rubbing it's face on the ground but it's not highly likely the dog will die. If you see your dog behaving strangely and frothing at the mouth, you can be pretty certain it's tried to pick up a toxic toad and you can take it to the vet for anti-toxin treatment but I would make sure your vet has anti-toxin treatment for the type of toad you have. Enroute to the vet you can continuously flush the dog's mouth with water while tilting the head downward so the dog won't swallow the water and using your hand on the tongue, cheeks and gums to remove the toxin will also make treatment easier. There aren't many toxic toads in North America and Texas in particular so it should be fairly easy to ID once you find one you can photograph. Cane and Giant Brown toads are the most toxic to dogs and other pets in your neck of the woods.


 
 

 

 


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