These Giant Toads Found In Florida Can Kill Your Pet In Minutes

Most of us know about the gators, snakes, and insects that can make our state dangerous for humans and our beloved companions, but did you know there’s another danger possibly hopping through your own backyard?

Flickr/Brian Gratwicke

Giant Toads, also called Marine Toads and Cane Toads, are an invasive species and also the largest toads found in Florida. This time of year, when we have the most rainfall, vets also see the highest number of sick pets who have encountered these toads.

Flickr/nikoretro

When Giant Toads feel threatened, whether being handled by a human or chased by a dog or cat, they release a toxic substance that burns our eyes and irritates our skin, and can kill our pets if it's ingested. They mostly come out at night, but can be found hiding anytime by curious pets. They're attracted to food and water dishes left outside, so try to bring these in when your pets aren't using them. Keep pets on a leash when walking at night.

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What can you do if you think your pet's in danger? Pets might start drooling, crying, shaking their heads, losing coordination and even convulsing, and their gums will turn red. It's important to rinse out the animal's mouth, pointing their head downward to make sure they don't swallow the water, clean out their mouth and gums with a wet washcloth, and call your veterinarian right away. Death is very likely if affected pets go untreated.

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Flickr/Squamatologist

Giant toads grow to be six to nine inches, and can live up to ten years. Adult Giant Toads are almost twice as large as our native Southern Toads, which have distinctive knobby ridges on their heads and are not lethal.

Have you had any encounters with Giant Toads? Do you know of any other dangers to people and pets in Florida we should know about? Please share your comments below.