Motorists across the United Kingdom are being urged to exercise extreme caution this weekend when using winter car products, with a stark warning issued over hidden dangers posed to family pets. As temperatures plunge below zero and amber weather warnings are in place, experts highlight that common motoring habits could have fatal consequences for dogs.
The Hidden Peril of Road Grit and Salt
While salt and grit are vital for maintaining road safety during icy conditions, they present a severe hazard to canine companions. Ross Hallifax, a specialist from pet insurance provider Purely Pets, warns that these substances can cause significant damage to dogs' paws. The chemicals are harsh on sensitive paw pads, leading to painful cracking, inflammation, and in the worst cases, chemical burns.
Furthermore, dogs can ingest toxic amounts of these materials while grooming themselves after a walk. Drivers are therefore advised to be mindful of where they park and where grit is spread, particularly in residential areas with high foot traffic from dog walkers.
"For long-haired breeds, trimming the fur around their feet helps prevent ice balls forming between the toes," advises Hallifax. He recommends wiping your dog's paws with warm water after every outdoor excursion and considering protective dog booties for added safety.
Antifreeze: A Sweet-Tasting Killer
The warning extends to antifreeze, a product commonly used by drivers to prevent engine coolant from freezing. Experts at RAC Drive explain that many antifreeze solutions contain ethylene glycol, a chemical with a sweet taste that is dangerously attractive to animals.
Even a small spill on a driveway or road can be lethal if a dog licks it from the ground or from its contaminated paws. Poisoning can occur rapidly, with symptoms including vomiting, a noticeable loss of coordination, seizures, and in severe cases, coma or death.
"To prevent antifreeze poisoning, store containers securely out of pets' reach," Ross Hallifax stresses. "Clean up any spills immediately and protect your pet's paws by using booties and wiping them down after they have been outside."
Act Fast: This is a Veterinary Emergency
The PDSA (People's Dispensary for Sick Animals) strongly reinforces this urgent message. The charity classifies antifreeze contact as a critical emergency for dogs. They advise pet owners to call a vet immediately if they suspect their dog has encountered antifreeze, and not to wait for symptoms to develop.
"Sadly, ethylene glycol poisoning is often fatal unless it's treated extremely quickly," a PDSA statement reads. They note that early signs can include increased urination followed by reduced urination one to three days after ingestion, alongside difficulty or rapid breathing.
The agency emphasises the grim reality: "Your dog has a higher chance of surviving if treatment is started within 12 hours of coming into contact with it." The prognosis heavily depends on the amount of the toxic substance swallowed.
As the UK endures another cold snap, this warning serves as a crucial reminder for all drivers to consider their winter car maintenance routines and take simple, proactive steps to safeguard the wellbeing of their four-legged family members.
