In the winter, our dogs still need to get outside to use the bathroom and for occasional exercise. If you live in an area that gets a lot of snow, however, it’s important to understand the dangers of rock salt and de-icers. If you have questions about your pet’s safety and health in cold weather, contact your Livonia veterinarian at your Livonia animal hospital: Sheehy Animal Hospital for more pet care tips.
Why Avoid De-icers?
Road salt and de-icers are known irritants for your pet’s feet. This is because most road salt is made from chlorine and sodium calcium, magnesium or potassium. Unlike regular table salt, road salt contains heavy metals and other contaminants that can be harmful to our pets. These chemicals can cause painful burning and cracked feet that dry out the pads and cause serious irritation. Your Livonia veterinarian can give you a list of other known products that might cause problems.
Protecting Your Dogs’ Feet
Chances are if you have pets, you already use safe de-icers at home, but if you take your pet anywhere, you must be concerned about what he will encounter on someone else’s property. To protect your dog’s feet, avoid walking in places where salt is used. Instead of taking a stroll along the road, keep your pup on the grass. Also, be sure to wash your dog’s paws in warm water after a walk just in case they’ve encountered salt. Use a dry towel to pat dry.
Paw booties are also another alternative to keep your pet’s feet dry and comfortable. They come in a wide variety of sizes and styles to suit your pet. You can also apply a product like a paw salve or Musher’s Secret, which creates a barrier to prevent exposure to harmful chemicals. You can find more information about the available products at your Livonia Animal Hospital.
Schedule an Appointment Today!
If you have any other questions about pet care in the winter, contact the Sheehy Animal Hospital at (248) 206-3030 to learn more about how you can protect your pet from dangerous substances.