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The Dangers of Antifreeze

You've probably heard this before, but then again, maybe not.  Just when you think everyone knows about the dangers of antifreeze since it's been on the news, in newspapers, and various other media outlets, you come across another case of antifreeze poisoning.  You just don't realize how dangerous this very common substance can be to your pet.

We recently had a client come in with his pet that was having trouble walking.  He was very unsteady on his feet and had become listless.  While the doctor was performing his physical exam, he asked his normal questions like how long it had been going on, what other symptoms there were etc.  After doing his evaluation, he asked if it was possible that the dog had come in contact with antifreeze over the last day or so.  The answer was "yes, we've been working on a car and had a couple of buckets full of antifreeze that had been drained from the car."  He then asked "was your dog in the garage with you?".  The answer came back, "yes, he's always with us".  He then remembered seeing the dog over by one of the buckets.  A blood test was done that confirmed our worst fear; ethylene glycol poisoning.  After several very expensive and risky treatments, the pet's condition deteriorated and unfortunately, the owner had to make the final decision to euthanize.

Every year there are several cases of antifreeze poisoning and usually it is fatal for pets.  It has a sweet taste that makes it very attractive to pets.  As little as one teaspoon of antifreeze can be deadly in a 7 pound cat and less than one tablespoon could be lethal to a 20 pound dog.  

WHAT YOU CAN DO:

• Keep all automotive products such as oil, gasoline, and antifreeze tightly sealed.
• Store these items in areas away from your pet's access.
• Clean up any leaks or puddles in the garage and driveway.
• Wash your pet's feet after taking them for a walk.  Puddles in the roadways or parking lots may contain run off antifreeze.
• Outdoor cats are in constant danger of poisoning because they come in contact with areas that are frequented by cars.  They also groom themselves extensively and ingest these poisons quickly.
• Always be aware of where your pet is at all times.  It is your responsibility to keep them safe!

For more information on household hazards, check out www.aspca.org

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