Lizard venom poisoning refers to venomous bite by a lizard. Of a number of lizard species, only two lizards are considered venomous to dogs. These are Gila monster and Mexican beaded lizard. Almost all other lizard species are harmless to dogs. Envenomation by lizards is very uncommon but these venomous lizards can cause life-threatening symptoms. These lizards deliver their toxins to the victim by injecting a toxin from glands within their lower jaw. However, these lizards are generally quite docile and infrequently envenomate dogs.
The venom of the two lizards is very similar. However, in contrast to the venom of most snakes, it does not have an anticoagulant effect. Even so, it has been shown to be just as potent as some rattlesnake venoms in lab tests.
Symptoms associated with toxic lizard bite include
Bleeding from the wound
Low blood pressure
Swelling
Excessive salivation
Tearing of the eyes
Frequent urination and defecation
Weakness
Irregular heart rhythm
Extreme pain at the wound site
