Also known as the bufo toad, marine toad or giant toad, they are repulsive, invasive and toxic. When a cane toad is disturbed, it secretes a highly toxic, milky gooey substance at the back of its head. This chemical cocktail is highly toxic to dogs and cats and can also cause skin irritation in humans. Danger to Dogs The cane toad’s toxin is a confirmed dog killer. Certain breeds are more vulnerable, such as terriers, which by nature are very curious. In order for a dog to be poisoned by a toad, it has to actually pick the toad up in its mouth, bite it or lick it. The toxin is then absorbed through the mucus membranes inside the dog’s mouth. Local Incidents The Marco Veterinary Hospital reports that in the last year they have not treated any dogs for cane toad poisoning. Last year, the Island Animal Hospital had one confirmed cane toad poisoning. The dog was taken to the Animal Specialty Hospital (ASH) in Naples where it was treated and released. ASH confirmed a weekly intake of one to three cases of cane toad poisonings, with three to five fatalities occurring in the last year.

No Danger to Pets: Southern toads are rarely larger than three inches, have two ridges on the head, and small oval poison glands.

Toxic to Pets: Cane toads have large, somewhat triangular poison glands that taper back into a point.
They are indiscriminate eaters of native frogs, reptiles, birds, and small mammals – thus displacing native Florida wildlife. They will eat anything, including garbage.
According to Dr. Steve A. Johnson, Associate Professor at the University of Florida Department of Wildlife Ecology & Conservation, “There is no approved spray/treatment for use on cane toads.” Johnson said that Naples has a big problem that seems to be growing and he urged Marco residents to be educated. “The state does not have a specific program for monitoring cane toads,” he added. Prevention: . Keep your dog leashed during evening walks. . Use a flashlight when it’s dark. . Teach your pet a “Leave It” command to stop scavenging behavior. . Do not leave water bowls out at night; toads like to climb in. . Familiarize pet sitters with symptoms of cane toad poisoning. . Know the phone number for a nearby veterinary emergency clinic.
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