Harligen, TX (KRGV) — Area veterinarians are warning pet owners about cane toads after heavy rains this weekend because the toxin the toads release can make pets sick and can be fatal.

A resident near La Villa, Flor Ortiz, is keeping her seven dogs away from the toads. Ortiz said she hears more wildlife when it rains because she lives near a field.

Cane toads are native to the area and are typically large and dry with humps on their backs. They can be dangerous to animals due to the bufo toxin they release. 

"It's that milky secretion from the toad they release when they're in distress," veterinary technician Cassidy Hinojosa said.

Hinojosa said her clinic has seen four cases tied to cane toads in the past two months. She said the toxin can turn a pet's gums red and leave a slimy membrane along the gumline if a dog or cat bites the toad.

If pet owners aren’t paying close attention, the poisoning could cause death.

Hinojosa said pet owners should check to see if their pets are heavily drooling and having seizures, signs they’ve been poisoned with the toxin.

If that does happen, Hinojosa said pet owners must use water to wipe down the slime with a rag for up to 10 minutes along the gums and tongue, and then rush to the vet’s office.

“We do recommend seeking veterinary care immediately just because this toxin can be absorbed very, very quickly, and it can be fatal,” Hinojosa said.

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