Motorists across the UK are being urged to exercise extreme caution with winter car products, as experts reveal a hidden danger to family pets. With amber and yellow weather warnings active and temperatures plunging below zero, the substances used to keep vehicles safe can have devastating consequences for dogs.
The Hidden Danger in Puddles and Paw Pads
While antifreeze is essential for preventing engine damage in freezing conditions, its chemical composition makes it a significant hazard. Ross Hallifax, a specialist from pet insurance provider Purely Pets, has highlighted that the sweet-tasting chemical ethylene glycol, found in many antifreeze products, is highly attractive yet toxic to animals.
Dogs can be poisoned simply by licking contaminated puddles, ground, or their own paws after walking near treated vehicles. The consequences are severe, potentially leading to critical illness, coma, or even death. The People's Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) stresses that suspected contact with antifreeze is a veterinary emergency, urging owners to act immediately and not wait for symptoms.
Road Grit and Salt: A Threat to Tender Paws
The warning extends beyond antifreeze. The salt and grit spread on roads and pavements to combat ice, while crucial for human safety, are incredibly harsh on dogs' paws. These ice-melting chemicals can cause painful irritation, cracking, inflammation, and in the worst cases, chemical burns on sensitive paw pads.
Furthermore, dogs may ingest these harmful substances while grooming themselves after a walk. Motorists are therefore advised to be mindful of where they park and where grit is distributed, particularly in residential areas popular with dog walkers.
Practical Steps to Protect Your Pet This Winter
Experts are offering clear guidance to keep dogs safe during the cold snap. Ross Hallifax recommends several protective measures:
- For long-haired breeds, trim the fur around their feet to prevent painful ice balls forming between the toes.
- Wipe your dog's paws and underside with warm water after every walk to remove chemical residues.
- Consider using protective dog booties, especially when temperatures plummet.
To prevent antifreeze poisoning specifically, store all containers securely out of pets' reach and clean up any spills instantly. The prognosis for a dog that has ingested ethylene glycol depends entirely on the amount swallowed and the speed of treatment, making prevention and rapid response paramount.
As the UK braces for more freezing weather, this stark reminder underscores the need for vigilance, ensuring our winter preparedness protects both our vehicles and our beloved four-legged family members.
