Winter Paw Patrol: Essential Dog Care Alert!

With freezing temperatures and snow blanketing the UK, a critical warning is issued to dog owners regarding post-walk paw care. Rock salt and grit used on roads can severely irritate canine paw pads, causing soreness, cracking, and even burns. The abrasive texture can also lead to bleeding. Ingesting this salt through licking paws can result in stomach upset or poisoning, with symptoms ranging from vomiting to severe neurological issues.

Beyond paw care, the charity Dogs Trust highlights the extreme danger of antifreeze. This de-icing product, often found on driveways and roads, has a sweet taste that can attract dogs, yet its ingestion can cause acute kidney failure and other serious neurological damage. The consequences of consuming antifreeze can be fatal, making immediate veterinary intervention paramount.

Veterinary professionals emphasize that simple preventative measures can safeguard dogs during winter. Regularly checking and wiping paws after walks significantly reduces the risk of irritation and ingestion. Securely storing antifreeze and de-icing products away from pets is also crucial. Owners who suspect their dog has ingested any toxic substance should seek veterinary care immediately to prevent irreversible harm.