Monsoon Season Means Toad Season: How to Keep Your Pets Safe

Summer monsoons bring much-needed rain to the desert, but they also bring out one of Southern Arizona's most dangerous hazards for curious pups: the Sonoran Desert toad aka the Colorado River Toad.

These large toads are most active during warm, rainy evenings and are commonly found in yards, parks, and neighborhoods throughout Tucson, Marana, Oro Valley, and Vail. Dogs are naturally curious and may try to sniff, lick, or pick up a toad, putting them at risk of exposure to the toxins the toad releases through its skin.

Why Are Sonoran Desert Toads Dangerous?

When threatened, Sonoran Desert toads secrete a potent toxin from glands behind their eyes. Even a quick lick or bite can cause serious illness in dogs.

Signs of toad poisoning may include:

• Excessive drooling or foaming at the mouth

• Bright red gums

• Pawing at the mouth

• Vomiting

• Disorientation or stumbling

• Tremors or seizures

• Difficulty breathing

Symptoms often appear within minutes, so quick action is essential.

What Should You Do?

If you believe your dog has licked or picked up a Sonoran Desert toad:

1. Stay calm and act immediately. Don't wait for symptoms to develop.

2. Use a garden hose with a gentle flow, a sink or shower sprayer, or a large cup of water. Avoid a forceful spray.

3. Point your dog's nose toward the ground. This allows the water and toxin to flow out of the mouth instead of being swallowed.

4. Gently flush the inside of the mouth, lips, gums, and tongue for 5–10 minutes. Focus on washing the toxin out rather than getting water down the throat.

5. Do not force your dog's mouth open if they're resisting, and don't put your fingers deep into their mouth if they're distressed.

6. Head to the nearest veterinarian or emergency clinic immediately, even if your dog seems okay. Symptoms can develop very quickly, and some dogs require emergency treatment.

What you should NOT do:

• ❌ Try to make your dog vomit.

• ❌ Give food or home remedies.

• ❌ Let your dog drink large amounts of water right away, as this may increase swallowing of the toxin.

How to Prevent Toad Encounters

The best protection is prevention.

• Always supervise your dog outside, especially after monsoon rains.

• Use a leash for walks.

• Check your yard before letting your dog outside.

• Remove standing water and outdoor pet food that may attract toads.

• Keep dogs away from washes, ponds, and damp landscaping after dark.

• Consider Avoidance Training

  
  

We're Here to Help

At Pura Vida Pet Care, your pet's safety is always our top priority. Our team is trained to watch for common Tucson hazards, including Sonoran Desert toads, during every visit. If you're traveling this monsoon season or need help walking your pup(s), we are here to help. If we ever notice increased toad activity around your home, we'll let you know so you can take extra precautions.

We hope you and your pets enjoy a safe, happy monsoon season.

Stay dry, stay safe, and give those curious noses a little extra supervision after the rain!