Antifreeze (ethylene glycol) is extremely toxic to pets. Even a few licks can be fatal and unfortunately, many pets become victims of this sweet tasting fluid. With proper knowledge of handling antifreeze, chances of accidental ingestion of antifreeze can easily be reduced.

As we all know, the main source of antifreeze is from vehicles. A pet may gain an access to antifreeze that is not properly stored or spilled/leaked on the garage floor or driveway. Pets that are allowed to roam freely are particularly at risk, because of their unlimited access in the neighborhoods. Pets that are confined in the garage are also at risk, if the antifreeze is inadequately stored or if there is a spill on the garage floor.

If you or anybody in your household replaces antifreeze at home, make sure to not leave the scene unattended during the process. Always collect all of the waste antifreeze fluid and properly dispose it immediately. If you spill, use rags to clean the area until it is dry. Place the rags in a bag or a sealed container, then rinse the area with plenty of water. Antifreeze can leak from your car also. Proper maintenance of your car is a must to prevent this situation.

Another way to reduce potential poisoning from antifreeze is to use propylene glycol based antifreeze. Propylene glycol based antifreeze is less toxic than ethylene glycol based antifreeze. Keep this in your mind – it is less toxic, but not entirely, therefore propylene based antifreeze must be properly stored and disposed as well.

Another source of antifreeze can be inside your home. If you have the decorative snow globes, be aware. The liquid inside contain 2% antifreeze. Do not display it within the reach of your pet, so that your pet will not accidentally break it and lick the spilled liquid.

Since ethylene glycol is an alcohol, initial signs of antifreeze poisoning resemble classical signs of alcohol intoxication such as staggering, stumbling, disorientation, vomiting, frequency in urination, etc. The initial signs can occur within 30 minutes to several hours after ingestion of antifreeze. Then the pet may seem to get better, but within 12 hours 36 hours of ingestion, the liver processes the ethylene glycol into more toxic substances which will cause the kidneys to fail and eventually lead to death. Symptoms of kidney failure are severe depression, vomiting and diarrhea.

Because the signs of antifreeze poisoning resemble other illnesses, ruling out the antifreeze poisoning can be difficult if the owner is unaware of the pet being exposed to antifreeze. Fortunately, there is a test available to support a diagnosis of antifreeze poisoning by a veterinarian. If you suspect your dog is poisoned by antifreeze, take your dog to a veterinarian immediately!