07/03/2024
Last night, we experienced a terrifying moment when our beloved dog, Koda, suddenly dropped to the ground and had a seizure—stiff, convulsing, and frothing at the mouth. This occurred around 8pm, and I can't begin to express the panic we felt.
Now, why am I sharing this as a community update? Two reasons:
For pet owners, accidents can happen at any time, just like for us humans. However, unlike humans with access to ambulances and emergency services, there's no such thing for our pets. It's crucial to know where your nearest Emergency Vet is (I've listed the Gold Coast options below—save them in your phone).
The vet suspects that Koda's episode may have been caused by one of two things: contact with a cane toad or underlying neurological issues. Although we don't often see cane toads where we live, it's Queensland, so they're everywhere. We've spotted them in our backyard occasionally, but Koda has never shown interest in them.
As a pet owner, here are steps you can take to prevent your dog or cat from coming into contact with a toad:
• Cane toads are nocturnal. Keep your pets inside at night and take them out for toilet breaks on a lead.
• Turn off outside lights and pool lights as much as possible.
• Remove any fresh standing water. Toads look for water without fish in it to breed.
• Place wire mesh around the outside of your fence, burying it at least 10cm and extending it at least 50cm above the ground.
• If you find any in your backyard, get rid of them! Cane toads are considered a major pest in Australia, and it is encouraged to humanely euthanize them.
What to do if your pet comes in contact with a toad:
• Use a damp cloth to wipe their gums, tongue, and roof of the mouth. Wash the cloth thoroughly between wipes. Continue this process for 10-20 minutes.
• Do not use a hose to rinse out the mouth; the toxin is sticky and requires wiping/rubbing to remove it. There is also a significant risk of them inhaling water, causing aspiration pneumonia or drowning.
• Contact your vet. In mild cases, wiping the mouth may be sufficient; however, it is recommended to take them to the vet immediately.
• Symptoms, including mouth irritation, excessive drooling/frothing, vomiting, panting, wobbliness, shaking/seizures, can worsen rapidly, and early treatment will give your pet the best chance of survival.
Emergency Vet Contacts on the Gold Coast:
• Varsity Lakes: Animal Emergency Centre Gold Coast - 24-hour Emergency Service
4/492 Scottsdale Dr, Varsity Lakes QLD 4227
0755 934 544
• Carrara: Animal Emergency Service - After-hours and weekend service
104 Eastlake St, Carrara QLD 4211
07 5559 1599
