Dogs Trust issues warning to owners as cold winter weather sets in

As temperatures plummet across Merseyside this week, the Dogs Trust is urging pet owners across the country to take extra care in protecting their furry friends from the hidden dangers of 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, so as the winter weather sets in, dog owners need to be even more careful when looking after their pets.

Antifreeze has a sweet taste, which can make it tempting for animals, who may come across it in unsecured storage areas or spilled on driveways and roads. 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, dizziness, increased thirst and urination, rapid breathing, seizures and muscle twitching.

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If you suspect your pet has ingested antifreeze, contact a vet immediately. Prompt treatment is critical to prevent irreversible damage, and the faster treatment begins, the better the chances for a full recovery.

If left untreated, ingestion of antifreeze can lead to kidney failure, coma, and death. Even dogs who appear to improve shortly after ingesting the toxic substance have a chance of becoming fatally ill days later due to the invisible effects on their kidneys.

Charlie Dobson, senior veterinary surgeon at Dogs Trust Merseyside, said: “Antifreeze is 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.”