There are many substances commonly available in the human world that can prove lethal to your pet. Two to look out for at this time of year are antifreeze and rock salt.
Always contact your vet immediately if you suspect that your pet has ingested anything that could do them harm. Never watch and wait, many symptoms can take hours or days to manifest and by that time it could be too late.
Antifreeze
Prevent your dog from drinking from roadside puddles as these are often contaminated with antifreeze. Antifreeze (ethylene glycol) is sweet and very appealing to dogs. There is an antidote (IV ethanol), but it needs to be given immediately otherwise the effects are likely to be fatal. Unfortunately it is an extremely common fatal poison.
Symptoms of antifreeze poisoning:
- Drunken behaviour
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Excessive urination
- Seizure
- Shaking and tremors
- Coma
- Death
Rock Salt
Rock salt is a mixture of salt (sodium chloride) and grit, and is used to prevent roads becoming icy during the winter. Rock salt poisoning usually occurs in pets such as dogs and cats when they lick it from their paws or fur when they return home.
Eating rock salt results in a high blood sodium concentration. This can cause thirst, vomiting and lethargy, and in severe cases, convulsions and kidney damage. Seek veterinary advice immediately.
First Aid for Dogs provides this information for guidance and it is not in any way a substitute for medical or veterinary advice. First Aid for Dogs is not responsible or liable for any diagnosis made, or actions taken based on this information.
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