Winter Caution for New Jersey Pet Holders: Avoid Heartbreak and Expensive ER Visits!
Cybersecdn- As New Jersey welcomes the winter season, pet owners are urged to be extra cautious about common household items that pose significant risks to their pets. Ethylene glycol, an ingredient found in antifreeze, and rock salt, used as an ice melt, are particularly hazardous.
Ethylene Glycol’s Hidden Danger
Ethylene glycol, commonly used in antifreeze for vehicles and in cabins’ toilets to prevent pipe freezing, is lethal to animals. According to Linda Marie Pedro, an associate veterinarian, exposure can lead to acute kidney failure in cats and dogs. Initial symptoms include disorientation and lethargy, with kidney failure occurring within 24 to 48 hours. Prompt treatment is crucial for survival, necessitating hospitalization, and extensive monitoring.
Rock Salt: A Threat to Paws and Health
With winter storms, the use of rock salt on sidewalks and driveways increases. While it prevents human slips, it’s highly irritating to animal paw pads, causing topical trauma. Ingesting rock salt can lead to gastrointestinal distress and, in larger quantities, severe electrolyte imbalances and seizures.
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Protective measures like booties and petroleum jelly can help safeguard pets’ paws. Veterinarians recommend wiping pets’ paws, legs, and bellies after outdoor exposure to remove any harmful chemicals. Awareness and preventive measures can significantly reduce the risks posed by these common winter items.
Additionally, other household hazards during winter include grapes, raisins, chocolate, bread dough, yeast, and hand warmers, all of which pose serious health risks to pets. Precautions such as keeping these items out of pets’ reach and making noise before starting car engines are essential for pet safety. These precautions and awareness can help New Jersey pet owners ensure a safe and healthy winter for their furry companions.