A fatal case of toad (Buffo Melanostictus) intoxication in a German shepherd dog and review of literature

Abstract

In the present communication, an unprecedented and fatal case of Buffo melanostictus intoxication in a German Shepherd dog, presented to Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, University of Agriculture Faisalabad Pakistan, for the treatment of profuse salivation, prostration, excessive vocalization, vomiting, hemorrhagic diarrhea and haematuria after accidently chewing a toad (Buffo melanostictus) is put on the record. The clinical examination revealed normal rectal temperature, tachypnea, arrhythmic tachycardia, deep red mucous membranes, elevated capillary refill time and severe neurological signs. Hematological analysis indicated decreased level of hemoglobin, packed cell volume, total red blood cells, mean corpuscular hemoglobin, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration along with leukocytosis, lymphopenia, neutrophilia, eosinophilia and monocytosis. The significant findings of biochemical panel were including, increased level of blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, liver enzymes, total proteinsand serum potassium. A symptomatic treatment regime was adopted but the patient died on 2nd day post treatment. Diagnosis of toad poisoning was arrived on the basis of pathognomonic clinical signs, hemato-biochemical findings, nevertheless the identification of chewed toad further supported the diagnosis. Additionally, treatment regime, management and known factors influencing toad poisoning along with prognosis are also reviewed.