Winter Toxins for Dogs: Antifreeze, Ice Melt, Rodent Bait and Other Cold Weather Dangers
Winter Toxins for Dogs: Antifreeze, Ice Melt, Rodent Bait and Other Cold Weather Dangers
Winter brings snow days and cozy nights, but it also brings some hidden dangers for dogs. Many common cold weather products, from car antifreeze to ice melt and rodent bait, are toxic. Holiday foods and medicine cabinets add even more risks.
This guide covers the most common winter toxins for dogs, what symptoms to look for, how to prevent poisoning and what to do in an emergency. For a full list of risky holiday foods, see our guide to holiday foods dogs can and can’t eat.
Why is antifreeze so dangerous for dogs?
Antifreeze is one of the most dangerous winter poisons for dogs. Most traditional antifreeze contains ethylene glycol, which tastes sweet and can cause kidney failure. Very small amounts can be fatal.
Antifreeze is found in car radiators, windshield washer fluid in some regions, some snow globes and in toilets of homes or cabins winterized with it.
Early signs within hours can include wobbliness that looks like drunkenness, vomiting, drinking and peeing more and lethargy. Dogs may seem to improve before kidney damage sets in.
Treatment must start quickly, ideally within hours, to be effective. If you think your dog licked even a little antifreeze, go to the vet immediately. Do not wait for symptoms.
How do I prevent antifreeze poisoning?
Choose antifreeze made with propylene glycol, which is much less toxic than ethylene glycol. Some products also add a bitter taste.
Wipe up spills right away and dispose of rags safely. Check your driveway and garage floor for leaks under cars.
Store antifreeze in sealed containers on high shelves or in locked cabinets, and keep your dog out of the garage when you are working on cars.
On walks, keep your dog away from puddles in parking lots, streets and driveways, where antifreeze may have leaked.
Is ice melt toxic to dogs?
Most ice melts and road salts irritate paws and can upset the stomach if licked or eaten. Common ingredients include sodium chloride, calcium chloride, potassium chloride and magnesium chloride.
Mild signs include drooling, vomiting and diarrhea. Eating larger amounts can cause high sodium levels, leading to excessive thirst, weakness, tremors and, rarely, seizures.
Wipe or rinse paws after every walk and do not let your dog eat salty snow or drink from salty puddles.
Use pet safe ice melt at home and store all products out of reach. See our winter paw care guide for more tips.
Why is rodent bait a winter danger?
Mice and rats move indoors in cold weather, so many people put out rodent bait in winter. These products are designed to taste good and are highly toxic to dogs.
Different types work in different ways. Some stop blood from clotting, others affect the brain or raise calcium levels. Symptoms vary and may not appear for days.
Signs can include bleeding, bruising, weakness, pale gums, coughing, trouble breathing, tremors, seizures, vomiting and increased thirst.
If your dog eats rodent bait, call your vet or poison control right away. Bring or photograph the packaging, since treatment depends on the active ingredient. Consider pet safe pest control options and ask pest control companies about pet safety.
Are cold and flu medicines dangerous for dogs?
Yes. Many human medicines are toxic to dogs, and winter is cold and flu season. Pain relievers like ibuprofen, naproxen and acetaminophen can cause stomach ulcers, kidney damage or liver damage in dogs.
Decongestants like pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine can cause a racing heart, high blood pressure, agitation and seizures.
Cough drops, lozenges and syrups may contain xylitol, menthol or other ingredients that are harmful.
Keep all medications in closed cabinets, never in purses or on nightstands where dogs can reach them, and never give your dog human medicine without your vet’s advice.
Which holiday foods are toxic to dogs?
Chocolate is a top winter risk with holiday candy, baking and gifts. Dark and baking chocolate are the most dangerous.
Grapes, raisins and currants in fruitcake, stuffing and trail mix can cause kidney injury.
Xylitol in sugar free gum, candy, baked goods and some peanut butters can cause dangerously low blood sugar and liver damage.
Onions, garlic, macadamia nuts, alcohol, raw yeast dough and fatty scraps are other common holiday risks. See our holiday foods guide.
Are space heaters and fireplaces a risk for dogs?
Space heaters can burn noses, tails and fur, and can be knocked over. Choose models with tip over shut off and keep them away from dog beds.
Fireplaces and wood stoves can cause burns. Use a sturdy screen and never leave a fire unattended with a dog in the room.
Fire starter logs and lighter fluid can be harmful if chewed or licked. Store them out of reach.
Ashes and embers can stay hot for hours. Dispose of ashes in a metal container outside, away from where your dog plays.
Can dogs get carbon monoxide poisoning?
Yes. Carbon monoxide affects pets as well as people. Risks rise in winter from furnaces, gas heaters, generators, fireplaces and cars running in garages.
Signs include sleepiness, weakness, vomiting, confusion, bright red gums and trouble breathing. Pets may show signs before people do.
Install carbon monoxide detectors on every floor of your home and test them regularly. Have heating systems checked each year.
Never run a car, generator or grill in a closed garage, and never leave a dog in a running car in a closed space. If you suspect carbon monoxide, get everyone outside and call for help.
What other winter dangers should I watch for?
Liquid potpourri and essential oils used for cozy scents can cause mouth burns and stomach upset if licked.
Batteries in new gifts and toys can cause burns if chewed, especially button batteries.
Silica gel packets from gift boxes are usually low risk but can cause stomach upset. Some packets contain iron and are more dangerous.
Holiday plants like mistletoe, holly and amaryllis can also be toxic. See our holiday plants guide.
What winter dangers are outside on walks?
Puddles in parking lots and streets can contain antifreeze, oil and road salt. Steer your dog around them and bring water so they are not tempted to drink.
Frozen ponds and lakes are a drowning risk. Ice can be thinner than it looks, and dogs may chase wildlife onto it. Keep your dog leashed near water.
Discarded food and trash after holiday parties, including bones, wrappers and leftovers, can show up on sidewalks and in parks.
Wild mushrooms and berries can appear in mild winter climates, and rodent bait stations may be placed around buildings. Keep a close eye on scavenging dogs and teach a solid leave it.
What should be in a winter pet emergency kit?
Keep phone numbers handy: your vet, the nearest 24 hour emergency clinic and an animal poison control service, saved in your phone and written on a card in the kit.
Basic supplies include gauze, bandage wrap, tape, scissors, tweezers, saline, gloves, a digital thermometer, a towel and a slip lead.
Winter extras include a warm blanket, paw balm, booties, a few days of food and water and any medications your dog takes, in case storms keep you at home.
Never keep hydrogen peroxide for inducing vomiting unless your vet has told you how and when to use it. Always call for advice first. See our year-end dog health checklist for a full first aid list.
What are general signs of poisoning in dogs?
Common signs include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, not eating, lethargy and changes in thirst or peeing.
Serious signs include wobbliness, tremors, seizures, trouble breathing, pale or yellow gums, bleeding or bruising, a racing heart and collapse.
Some toxins cause no symptoms at first. Antifreeze, rodent bait and xylitol can cause serious damage before obvious signs appear.
If you know or suspect your dog swallowed something toxic, call for advice right away rather than waiting for symptoms.
What should I do if my dog eats something toxic?
Stay calm and act fast. Move your dog away from the substance and keep the packaging.
Call your vet, the nearest emergency clinic or an animal poison control service. ASPCA Animal Poison Control is (888) 426 4435, and a fee may apply. Pet Poison Helpline is another option.
Have this ready: what your dog ate, how much, when and your dog’s weight and health conditions.
Do not make your dog vomit unless a vet tells you to, and do not give home remedies like salt, milk or oil. Some substances cause more harm coming back up.
How do I dog proof for winter?
Store chemicals high and sealed: antifreeze, ice melt, rodent bait, cleaning products and fire starters.
Keep medications in closed cabinets and ask guests to keep bags off the floor.
Wipe paws after every walk, check for spills in the garage and driveway and keep your dog away from puddles in parking lots.
Save emergency numbers in your phone, check holiday hours for your vet and the nearest 24 hour clinic and keep a pet first aid kit ready.
- Antifreeze is a true emergency. Even small amounts can be fatal.
- Rodent bait use rises in winter. Keep it where dogs cannot reach.
- Wipe paws after every walk to remove ice melt and chemicals.
- Human cold medicines can be toxic to dogs.
- Call for help right away. Fast treatment saves lives.
Safe and cozy all winter
Most winter poisonings are preventable. Store chemicals and medicines safely, wipe paws after walks, keep holiday treats out of reach and save emergency numbers, and you can enjoy the season with peace of mind.
From all of us at Happy Yay, here’s to a safe, warm and happy winter.
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Frequently asked questions
What should I do if my dog drinks antifreeze?
Go to your vet or an emergency clinic immediately, even if your dog seems fine. Antifreeze poisoning needs treatment within hours to be effective.
Is ice melt toxic to dogs?
Most ice melts can irritate paws and upset the stomach if licked. Large amounts can cause serious problems from high sodium. Use pet safe products and wipe paws after walks.
What are signs of rat poison in dogs?
Signs can include bleeding, bruising, pale gums, weakness, coughing, trouble breathing, tremors, seizures and increased thirst. Symptoms may take days to appear. Call your vet right away.
Can I give my dog human cold medicine?
No. Many human cold and flu medicines, including pain relievers and decongestants, can be toxic to dogs. Ask your vet before giving any medication.
Is propylene glycol antifreeze safe for pets?
It is much less toxic than ethylene glycol, but it is not completely safe. Still store it carefully and wipe up spills.
Can dogs get carbon monoxide poisoning?
Yes. Signs include sleepiness, weakness, vomiting, bright red gums and trouble breathing. Install carbon monoxide detectors and never run cars or generators in closed spaces.
What is the animal poison control number?
ASPCA Animal Poison Control is (888) 426 4435. Pet Poison Helpline is another option. A consultation fee may apply.