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Antifreeze Dog Poisoning
Antifreeze Dog Poisoning
Take Precautions to Protect Your Pets From Antifreeze
Poisoning This Winter
by American Animal Hospital Association
November 10, 2004
As the days grow shorter and the nights cooler, people are
preparing their homes and vehicles for the winter season.
If adding or changing the antifreeze in your car is one of
your fall rituals, the American Animal Hospital Association
(AAHA) reminds you that antifreeze is a common cause of poisoning
in dogs and cats.
"Antifreeze has a sweet taste that is appealing to pets,
but it is also highly toxic and often fatal," says Dennis
Feinberg, DVM, AAHA president. "Even a small amount can be
deadly. If you suspect that your pet has ingested antifreeze,
take him to your veterinarian as soon as possible."
If ingested, antifreeze will be rapidly absorbed into your
pet's system and symptoms including vomiting, unsteadiness,
tremors, thirst and frequent urination may be present within
30 minutes. If left untreated, the animal will suffer kidney
failure and ultimately death. However, if your pet receives
treatment as soon as possible after ingesting antifreeze,
complete recovery is possible.
Pet owners should be sure to clean up any spills in the garage
immediately, keep antifreeze containers stored safely out
of reach of pets and properly dispose of empty containers.
Make sure to provide plenty of clean, unfrozen water for your
pet so she isn't as likely to drink from puddles or gutters
that could contain dangerous chemicals such as antifreeze
or other household chemicals and pollutants. Pet safe antifreeze
alternatives are also now available to give pet owners peace
of mind.
The American Animal Hospital Association is an international
organization of more than 33,000 veterinary care providers
who treat companion animals. Established in 1933, the association
is well known among veterinarians for its high standards for
hospitals and pet health care. For pet care information or
a referral to an AAHA hospital, pet owners can visit the AAHA
website at http://www.healthypet.com.
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