Florida Cold Front Poses Deadly Threat to Dogs from Fallen Iguanas

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A new cold front is coming to Florida, which could cause invasive iguanas to become cold-stunned or die. Decaying iguanas can develop a toxin that can cause botulism in dogs if ingested. Botulism can cause paralysis and death in dogs, with symptoms starting in the rear limbs. A Florida family's dog recently died and another was paralyzed from suspected botulism after eating a dead iguana.

Why it matters

Iguanas are an invasive species in Florida, and their cold-stunned or dead bodies can pose a serious threat to pets like dogs. Botulism from ingesting decaying iguanas can be fatal for dogs, highlighting the need for pet owners to be aware of this danger during cold weather events.

The details

When temperatures drop between 40 and 50 degrees, iguanas can become cold-stunned and paralyzed, falling from trees. If the cold weather persists, the iguanas can die. As the iguanas decay, they develop the C. botulinum bacteria, which produces a highly toxic neurotoxin. Dogs that ingest these dead iguanas can contract botulism, a paralyzing disease that affects the nervous system. Symptoms include vomiting, weakness starting in the rear limbs, inability to walk or hold up the head, facial paralysis, and difficulty breathing. Left untreated, botulism can lead to respiratory distress and death in dogs.

• On Feb. 1, temperatures dropped to near freezing or below freezing in parts of South Florida, causing iguanas to become cold-stunned.
• On Feb. 2, similar cold temperatures were repeated.
• Another cold front blew through on Feb. 6, leading to more cold-stunned and dead iguanas.
• On Feb. 12, a Florida family's dogs became ill after playing with a dead iguana in their backyard.
• On Feb. 16, one of the dogs, Tally, died from suspected botulism.

What they’re saying

What’s next

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