AS freezing temperatures, rain, and snow hit parts of the UK, Dogs Trust Merseyside is warning that rock salt and grit, often used on roads and pavements at this time of year, could cause health issues in our canine companions.

Ice-melting salt, often spread as grit, can lead to soreness, cracking, and burns on dogs’ paw pads, as its abrasive texture may cause dryness, cracking, redness, or bleeding.  

Dogs can also experience tummy problems if they ingest too much salt. Even small amounts of rock salt can irritate the digestive system, which could happen if they lick their paws after walking on salt. Symptoms of salt poisoning may include vomiting, diarrhoea, excessive thirst, tremors, seizures, and, in severe cases, if they eat large quantities, kidney damage or coma.

To avoid issues, Dogs Trust is advising owners to check their dog’s paws after every walk and wipe them to remove any salt or grit, including checking between the toes.

The charity is also urging pet owners to take extra care around antifreeze. Commonly used in de-icing products, screen wash and in car engines, antifreeze contains ethylene glycol, a highly toxic substance that can cause severe illness or even death in pets if ingested. Even a very small amount can be deadly.

Antifreeze has a sweet taste, which can make it tempting for animals to drink if it’s left in accessible areas or spills onto driveways and roads. Unfortunately, the ethylene glycol it contains can cause acute, irreversible kidney failure and neurological issues. Symptoms of poisoning may not appear immediately, but early signs to watch for include vomiting, lethargy and weakness, unsteadiness on their feet, increased thirst and urination, rapid breathing, and seizures or muscle twitching.

If you suspect your pet has ingested antifreeze, contact a vet immediately. Prompt treatment is critical to prevent irreversible damage and, if left untreated, ingestion of antifreeze can lead to kidney failure, coma, and death. The faster treatment begins, the better the chances for a full recovery.

Charlie Dobson, Senior Veterinary Surgeon at Dogs Trust, says:- “Many dogs love to walk, regardless of the weather. But winter brings with it some hidden dangers for dogs. With freezing weather forecast, we’re sure to see the gritters out to make our roads and pavements safe for people, but grit can be problematic for dogs. Many people don’t realise that the salt and grit spread on roads can irritate a dog’s paws and, if licked off, can cause stomach upset or even poisoning. Simply checking and wiping your dog’s paws after a winter walk can go a long way in preventing issues. Antifreeze is also extremely dangerous for dogs, and other pets, because even a small amount can lead to serious, often fatal, health issues. Unfortunately, because it has a sweet taste it can be particularly enticing to pets. The best way to protect your dog is to keep all antifreeze and de-icing products securely stored, avoid using them around your dog, and seek veterinary care immediately if you suspect they’ve ingested any.”

Keeping Your Pets Safe

Antifreeze and grit are not the only risks facing dogs and their owners in this weather. To help ensure dogs remain healthy and happy, the nation’s largest dog welfare charity has published some easy-to-follow guidance. 
 

1. Stay warm - Dogs feel the cold just like we do, so it is important to keep them warm.  Puppies and elderly dogs are much more likely to get cold quickly, so limit their time outdoors in cold weather. Some shorter-haired pooches may also need a little bit of help staying warm, so consider buying them a sensible winter coat. Wearing a coat is a new experience for some dogs and needs to be introduced in a gradual and positive way. Some breeds continue to grow thick furry coats all year round, so, as the weather gets colder, consider letting your dog's fur grow longer to give them added protection.

2. Keep your dog on the lead - Snow can be disorientating for dogs, and they can become easily lost in it. Make sure your dog is wearing a collar and ID tag, and their microchip details are up to date. 

3. Avoid ice – Many dogs love to swim but with these freezing temperatures, they may find their usual spot frozen over. While it might be tempting to let them run on this ice, Dogs Trust is warning that this could be dangerous for both dogs and owners alike. The ice may not be thick enough to take your dog’s weight, and they could fall through into the freezing water underneath.

4. Increase visibility - Your own safety is important, too. Before heading out for a walk, ensure you are dressed appropriately for the weather with a suitable coat and shoes, and that you and your dog are visible. As the days grow shorter, consider wearing a high-visibility jacket and using a reflective collar, lead, and high-visibility coat for your dog.

5. Check your lead - Regularly check your dog's leads, collars and harnesses to make sure they’re all functioning safely and won’t get damaged by winter weather, as wet weather can cause metal clips to rust. It can be trickier to attach lead clips to collars and harnesses when it's cold, so do this indoors if possible.

6. Consider indoor games - You might be spending more time indoors if the weather's very bad, so always make sure your dog has plenty to do. Indoor games like hide and seek, or 'find it', are fun and mentally stimulating for your dog. Hide a toy for them to search for and play with as a reward when they find it. Long-lasting, tasty chews, rubber food-releasing toys, and enrichment games are helpful in giving your dog something enjoyable to do that is mentally stimulating. 

To find out more about keeping your dog safe and healthy this winter, visit this website.