The Dangers of Antifreeze

As the days and nights become cooler, our thoughts turn to preparations for the winter season. One of the tasks people routinely do in the fall is to add antifreeze to their vehicles. While antifreeze works well for cars, it is deadly to dogs and other animals. A small amount left on the ground can prove to be disastrous to man's best friend if he happens to lap it up.

Antifreeze has a sweet taste that is appealing to dogs and it only takes a small dose of antifreeze to be lethal. The initial symptoms of antifreeze poisoning may include vomiting, unsteady on the feet, tremors, depression, thirst and frequent urination. These symptoms can begin as soon as 30 minutes after the antifreeze has been ingested and may last for 12 hours at which time the symptoms will disappear. At this point, the liver will have broken down the ethylene glycol, the active ingredient in antifreeze. Further symptoms may not be noticeable for days and irreparable damage may be occurring. Vomiting may reoccur, as well as loss of appetite, dehydration, inability to urinate, salivation, seizures, mouth ulcers, coma and death.

If you see or suspect your dog has ingested antifreeze, take your animal to your Veterinarian immediately. If your dog has proper treatment within the crucial first 12 hours, complete recovery is possible. In order to prevent the ethylene glycol from being absorbed into the liver, the Vet will administer an IV of ethanol which counters the affect of the deadly ethylene glycol.

When changing or adding antifreeze to your car, care should be taken to avoid spilling any or allowing any to remain in a puddle on the ground. Empty antifreeze containers and any rags used should be disposed of properly, and containers of antifreeze should be wiped clean and stored out of the reach of pets. There are several types of antifreeze on the market now that are advertised as "pet safe" and serve as an alternative to standard antifreeze. When purchasing and using antifreeze, always keep the welfare and health of your pet in mind.

Reprinted from the American Kennel Club