When the winter weather threatens ice and snow, many municipalities use salt on the roads and walkways to make travel safe. Unfortunately, the road salt that keeps the road safe to drive on poses a health hazard for your dogs. WKYC TV reports that 10 million tons of salt is used each year on roads in the United States and this road salt is making dogs sick and irritating their paws.
The danger
Road and sidewalk salt can cause health issues in dogs. It causes burns and irritation to paws when a dogs skin comes into contact with it. Salt can also cause stomach and digestive track irritation if ingested. In large quantities, ingesting road salt can be fatal.
Remedies
Keep your dogs safe and comfortable by limiting their exposure to road and sidewalk salt. If you live in a condo or apartment, request that the maintenance department use another form of ice-melt on sidewalks and stairs.
Wash and dry your dog’s feet after a walk outdoors. For dogs with very sensitive skin, booties will resolve the problem and protect their paws—if you can get your dog to wear them.
Check you dog’s paws for signs of irritation. This includes redness and sores. If your dog licks their paws after a walk, it could be an indication that the road or sidewalk salt is causing irritation. Washing their paws should help and it will reduce the chances of your dog ingesting any salt.
We all love our pets. Taking a few minutes after a romp outside in the winter will help keep your dog’s paws happy and healthy.
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