09/04/2026
🐸💧 IT’S MONSOON SEASON: IS YOUR YARD TOAD-PROOF? 💧🐸
Happy Tails family, we love our desert wildlife, but National Wildlife Day is the perfect time to remember that some local neighbors are dangerous to our furry friends!
We are officially in peak season for the Colorado River Toad (Sonoran Desert Toad). These large toads emerge after the rains, and they are highly toxic to dogs. Simply mouthing or licking one can cause a life-threatening emergency within minutes.
Knowledge is power! Please save and share this infographic to keep our local pet community safe.
🔎 KNOW THE SYMPTOMS:
If your dog encounters a toad, watch for these immediate signs:
🔵Excessive foaming or frothing at the mouth
🔵Bright red, slimy gums
🔵Pawing at the mouth or head shaking
🔵Disorientation, stumbling, or collapsing
🔵Seizures (severe cases)
🔵Whining, wide eyes, peeing, cowering (has hallucinogen effects)
🆘 EMERGENCY FIRST AID:
If you suspect your dog has mouthed a toad, ACT IMMEDIATELY:
🔵FLUSH THE MOUTH: Grab a hose or use running water. Position your dog’s head pointing DOWN to prevent them from swallowing toxic water. Flush from the back of the mouth forward for 10-15 minutes.
🔵CALL THE VET: Treat this as a serious emergency. Head to your nearest emergency vet right away.
🏡 PREVENTION TIPS FOR HOME:
🔵Always scan your backyard with a flashlight at dusk/dawn before letting your dogs out.
🔵Bring outdoor water bowls inside overnight—toads love to soak in them, leaving toxins behind!
🔵Keep dogs on a leash during potty breaks on rainy or humid nights.
Stay vigilant and keep those tails wagging safely! 🐾
