03/20/2023
If you live and work where the winters are brutal, you most likely know about deicers used on sidewalks and streets to melt snow/ice and make things less slippery. But are you aware of the dangers these deicers can cause to your pet?
Most deicers contain a type of salt, such as sodium chloride, magnesium chloride, potassium chloride, or calcium chloride. Some may contain other types of chemicals as well. The canine paw pads could become sore from repeatedly stepping on rough salt crystals. Or, sharp edges can cut into the paw pad, resulting in a laceration and bleeding. Salt on paw pads can cause excessive dryness, cracking, or even chemical burns, especially with prolonged or repeated exposure. Typical with any paw discomfort, a pup might lick or chew excessively, which can make the issue worse, lead to an infection, and/or lead to salt poisoning.
The most obvious symptoms of paw injury would be limping or showing any signs of discomfort during or after a walk. Excessive licking of the paws can be another sign. Inspecting paw pads in the winter, whether they are showing symptoms or not, is a good way to monitor for any problems and catch them early. Look for redness, dryness/cracking, bleeding, blisters, sores, or anything else abnormal. Also note if the dog reacts painfully as you inspect the paws.
Minor dryness and irritation may be treated at home. Wash the paws, then apply a soothing balm designed for paw pads. For bleeding, swollen, and/or cut paw pads that are obviously painful or infected, or any other moderate to severe concerns, a visit to the veterinarian is warranted.
Just like humans, some canines like the taste of salt. So some dogs will try to eat deicing salts directly from the ground. If your dog falls into this category, be extra cautious and monitor closely when on walks. More commonly, salt on a dog’s paws would be ingested when they lick their paws clean after a walk outside.
Mild cases of salt ingestion may simply cause digestive upset. But this may be difficult to differentiate from salt poisoning in the early stages, so it’s best to seek veterinary care. Some of the symptoms of salt poisoning include:
*Vomiting and diarrhea
*Loss of appetite
*Dehydration.
*Excessive thirst or urination.
*Mouth ulcerations (depending on the specific compound ingested).
*Weakness, lethargy, uncoordinated walking, or collapse.
*Tremors or seizures.
If you suspect your dog ingested salt or other deicing chemicals, or if you’ve noticed any concerning symptoms after a walk, it’s best to contact your veterinarian immediately. Early treatment for salt poisoning is crucial.