09/01/2025
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🐡 The Animal Poisons Helpline expects a seasonal increase in the number of calls regarding pufferfish exposure over summer. Pufferfish, also known as toadfish, blowfish or simply blowies, can be very attractive to pets. Dogs have been known to quickly eat washed up pufferfish before their owners can stop them. Sometimes pet owners may be unaware that their pet has ingested a pufferfish until they develop signs of poisoning soon after a visit to the beach.
Most pufferfish are toxic when ingested. They contain a highly potent neurotoxin known as tetrodotoxin in their organs and skin. Pufferfish ingestion can be life-threatening and result in a rapid onset of paralysis which typically begins in the back legs and progresses forward to the respiratory muscles. Other signs of poisoning may include vomiting, tremors and possibly seizures.
We would like to remind all dog owners to be cautious with their pets whilst visiting the beach. Keeping your dog leashed is a good idea and can be a useful strategy to prevent your dog eating beached pufferfish, jellyfish and other poisonous marine creatures such as sea hares. Whilst on the beach, always observe your pets and do not allow them to approach washed-up fish. To the fishing enthusiasts, please immediately return any pufferfish that are caught to the water rather than leaving them behind where dogs may eat them.
If your pet has ingested a pufferfish, they require urgent veterinary attention. Do not wait for signs of poisoning to develop. Whilst ensuring the wellbeing of your poisoned pet is paramount, veterinary care for poisoning can often be costly. Pet insurance provides peace of mind and protection in these events. The Animal Poisons Helpline is proudly sponsored by Bow Wow Meow Pet Insurance, who are currently offering two months of their Nose-to-Tail Cover for free in the first year of coverage for Helpline followers. Visit https://quote.bowwowinsurance.com.au/?promo=AP368 for more information.
☎️ The Animal Poisons Helpline provides free advice to pet owners in Australia and can be reached on 1300 869 738 (AU), 0800 869 738 (NZ), 3106 4216 (SG), (917) 722-5958 (US) or +1917 722-5958 (CAN). If you are a member of a veterinary team you can also join the Animal Poisons Centre For Vets Facebook group which is regularly updated with toxicology tidbits and poisoning trends.
