My Dog Drank Antifreeze: Should I go to the pet ER?

Even the smallest amount of antifreeze can cause serious harm to your canine companion. Our veterinarians in Nashua discuss antifreeze and dogs, the dangers of this substance and what to do if your furry friend drinks it.

Dogs & Antifreeze

Unfortunately, many pets die every year due to antifreeze poisoning, which is a common hazard for dogs. Your dog might accidentally consume it by licking a few drops of antifreeze from your driveway after it has leaked from your car. 

The lethal antifreeze chemical is ethylene glycol, which dogs can consume in large quantities before experiencing any aftertaste. Unfortunately, it is usually too late by the time the aftertaste starts. Even less than three ounces (88 ml) of this liquid is enough to poison a medium-sized dog and cause fatal damage to their system, including the liver, brain, and kidneys.

It's worth noting that ethylene glycol is also used in hydraulic brake fluids. Sometimes, homeowners add antifreeze to their toilet bowls to protect their pipes during winter. If you are visiting other homes with your pet, be mindful of this.

Symptoms of Antifreeze Poisoning

Here are some common symptoms of antifreeze poisoning in dogs:

Diagnosing Antifreeze Poisoning in Dogs

If you suspect your dog has antifreeze poisoning, it is crucial to take it to a veterinarian for a physical examination. During the visit, the vet will ask you about the symptoms your dog has been experiencing and how the poisoning might have occurred.

The vet will conduct diagnostic testing to diagnose the poisoning. If possible, they may analyze your dog's stool or vomit, perform a urinalysis and examine the chemical blood profile. These tests can help the vet diagnose the poisoning and expedite treatment.

The course of treatment will depend on your dog's medical history, which you must recount to the vet as thoroughly as possible. Therefore, it is important to be able to provide as much information as you can.

What can I do if my dog drinks antifreeze?

Because antifreeze poisoning can easily be fatal, immediate first aid needs to be administered extremely carefully. Only induce vomiting if you are positive your dog has ingested antifreeze. We recommend calling your veterinarian before inducing vomiting since this can be dangerous in some instances of poisoning, as some substances can seriously damage the esophagus. If your vet recommends inducing vomiting, they will give you specific instructions on how to do so safely.

If your dog has vomited, do not try to induce more vomiting. If vomiting does not occur after your dog has had three doses of hydrogen peroxide, seek emergency veterinary care.

It is not recommended to induce vomiting in dogs with breathing difficulties, severe shock or distress, or unconsciousness. Regardless of whether your dog vomits, it is important to immediately take them to the veterinarian, who can safely administer antidotes.

Antidotes for antifreeze poisoning may include activated charcoal, which will stop the further absorption of ethylene glycol, or 4-methyl pyrazole, which can effectively treat antifreeze poisoning if given quickly enough after ingestion. However, there is still a possibility of kidney failure, which may require intensive care for the dog.

Dogs that have consumed antifreeze in small amounts may survive, but they may develop kidney failure within days of ingestion. Unfortunately, kidney damage kills many dogs who have been poisoned by antifreeze.

How to Prevent Antifreeze Poisoning

Antifreeze is toxic to dogs and can cause serious harm, but poisoning is preventable. Here are some steps to take to protect your furry friend:

• Close antifreeze containers tightly, and keep them out of reach of your dog’s curious nose.
• According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, propylene glycol is safe. Look for antifreeze with this ingredient, which can prevent your pet from ingesting ethylene glycol.
• Please do not allow your dog to wander into areas with easy access to antifreeze, such as driveways, garages, streets, etc.
• Inspect your car’s radiator regularly, and have leaks repaired immediately.
• Ensure any antifreeze spills are immediately and thoroughly cleaned.
• Dispose of used antifreeze containers properly.

Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.