Pet owners urged to be wary of toxic antifreeze as temperatures plummet

Antifreeze contains ethylene glycol which is a highly toxic substance that can cause severe illness or even death in pets if ingested.

Dogs Trust urge pet owners to be wary of toxic antifreeze as temperatures plummet — Even if a very small amount of antifreeze is ingested it can be fatal Dogs Trust

Keiran Fleming

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Dogs Trust have warned pet owners to be wary of the hidden dangers of antifreeze as temperatures continue to drop.

Antifreeze contains ethylene glycol which is a highly toxic substance that can cause severe illness or even death in pets if ingested.

Even if a very small amount is ingested it can be fatal. Pets can suffer irreversible kidney failure and neurological issues if they drink the sweet tasting antifreeze.

Symptoms of poisoning may not be immediate but early signs include vomiting, lethargy and weakness, unsteady or drunken-like behaviour, increased thirst and urination, rapid breathing and seizures or muscle twitching.

If a pet does drink antifreeze, owners are urged to contact a vet immediately as fast treatment is vital to prevent irreversible damage.

Charlie Dobson, senior veterinary surgeon at Dogs Trust, 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.”