Motorists across the UK have been issued an urgent warning about the hidden dangers of common winter driving products, with pets at serious risk of illness or even death. The alert comes as temperatures plunge below zero and weather warnings for ice and snow are in place for many regions.
The Hidden Hazard on Roads and Driveways
While salt, grit, and antifreeze are essential for safe winter motoring, they pose a severe threat to canine companions. Ross Hallifax, a specialist from pet insurance provider Purely Pets, has emphasised that everyday winter conditions can expose pets to life-threatening dangers, with "coma or death" possible in the most severe cases.
Chemicals used to melt ice on roads and pavements can cause significant damage to dogs' paws. These substances can lead to painful cracking, inflammation, and even chemical burns on sensitive pads. The risk intensifies as dogs may then ingest toxic residues while licking their paws clean.
Why Antifreeze is a Silent Killer
Antifreeze, commonly used in vehicle cooling systems, presents an especially acute danger. Experts at RAC Drive explain that many antifreeze products contain ethylene glycol, a chemical with a sweet taste that tragically attracts animals. Even a small spill on a driveway or road can be fatal if a dog licks it.
Symptoms of ethylene glycol poisoning in dogs include:
- Vomiting
- Loss of coordination and appearing "drunk"
- Seizures
- Increased urination followed by reduced urination
- Difficulty breathing
- In the final stages, coma or death
The People's Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) has stressed that this is a dire emergency. "Call your vet immediately if you think your dog has come into contact with antifreeze," they advise. The charity warns that survival chances are highest if treatment begins within 12 hours of ingestion, but sadly, poisoning is often fatal without extremely rapid intervention.
How to Protect Your Pet This Winter
Pet owners are urged to take proactive steps to safeguard their animals. Ross Hallifax recommends storing antifreeze containers securely out of reach and cleaning up any spills instantly. For walks, he suggests wiping your dog's paws with warm water after every outing to remove grit and chemicals.
Additional protective measures include trimming long fur around a dog's feet to prevent ice ball formation and considering the use of protective dog booties in severe cold. Drivers are also asked to be mindful of where they park and where de-icing products have been spread, particularly in residential areas popular for dog walking.
The overarching message from all experts is clear: vigilance and prompt action are paramount. With the UK in the grip of winter, understanding these hidden hazards could make the difference between life and death for a beloved pet.
