Winter in the city brings slushy curbs, salted sidewalks and cars warming up in every parking spot. It also brings a couple of hazards that are easy to miss when you’re just trying to get a quick potty walk done before work. Here’s what to watch for, so a normal winter stroll stays a normal winter stroll.
Antifreeze: small puddle, big danger
Most antifreeze contains ethylene glycol. The ASPCA calls it highly toxic: it affects the nervous system and kidneys, and it takes only a small amount to be potentially fatal. The AKC notes that as little as a teaspoon can cause kidney failure. The tricky part is that it tastes sweet, so a curious dog may lap up a bright green or blue puddle under a parked car.
Early signs can be easy to miss. The ASPCA says problems may start within a couple of hours, and pets can be markedly ill within six to twelve hours. Signs include:
- Unsteadiness on the feet
- Vomiting
- More thirst and more peeing than usual
What to do: if you think your dog drank antifreeze, go to a vet hospital right away, even if they seem fine. The ASPCA says there is an antidote, but treatment needs to start as soon as possible. Bring the product packaging if you have it.
City tip: steer your dog around puddles in parking garages, alleys and under parked cars. If you top off your own car’s coolant, clean spills thoroughly and consider a product made with propylene glycol, which the ASPCA says has a much wider margin of safety.
Ice melt: tough on paws and tummies
Rock salt (sodium chloride) and calcium chloride keep sidewalks from turning into skating rinks, but the AKC says they can damage paw pads. Dogs also lick their feet afterward, and that’s how ice melt ends up in their stomachs.
According to the ASPCA, rock salt can irritate paws and, if a dog eats enough, cause dangerously high sodium levels. Calcium, potassium and magnesium chloride can be even more irritating to the gut, sometimes causing bloody vomiting or diarrhea. The most common problem after a dog eats ice melt is an upset stomach, but larger amounts can lead to tremors or seizures.
A few easy habits help:
- Don’t let your dog eat salt or slushy snow along treated sidewalks.
- Wipe paws as soon as you get inside. A damp cloth or a bucket of warm water by the door works. Get between the toes, then dry well.
- Check for cracks or redness between the toes and on the pads.
- Consider booties or a paw balm if your dog’s feet get irritated. Our guide to paw balms and booties for salted winter sidewalks has options that work for city walks.
If you salt your own steps or balcony, keep in mind that the ASPCA says there are no specific labeling requirements for “pet safe” de-icers. Pet-friendly products usually contain urea or magnesium chloride, which are generally gentler but can still upset a stomach. Store any bag well out of reach.
Keep the number handy
Save these in your phone now, so you’re not searching in a panic later:
- Your regular vet and your nearest 24-hour emergency vet
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435 (a consultation fee may apply)
Winter walks can still be the best part of your dog’s day. A little extra attention around puddles and salted corners keeps them safe, and for more cold-weather basics, see our post on how cold is too cold for your dog.
Sources: ASPCA, “Digging Deeper: Getting the Facts on the Dangers of Antifreeze and Your Pets,” “Is It Safe to Use De-Icers Around Your Dog?,” “Keeping Pets Safe during Winter: The Dangers of Ice Melts” and “Cold Weather Safety Tips”; American Kennel Club, “How to Keep Your Dog Warm and Safe This Winter” and “Dog Safe Ice Melts.”
This post is general information, not a substitute for advice from your own veterinarian.