PET42 guide
Antifreeze poisoning in dogs: small amounts can be fatal
Antifreeze containing ethylene glycol can severely damage the kidneys. Learn why you must not wait for symptoms after possible ingestion.
Antifreeze containing ethylene glycol can be highly poisonous to dogs. Early symptoms sometimes look like drunkenness, followed by an apparent brief improvement. This phase must never be taken as an all-clear.
Where ethylene glycol is found
Ethylene glycol is mainly found in some radiator antifreezes, but may also occur in other vehicle and technical fluids. Poisoning in cold regions is particularly common in autumn and winter when cooling systems are filled or drained. Puddles in garages, driveways or workshops pose a risk.
The course can be misleading
Early signs often develop quickly:
- Vomiting
- Unusually intense thirst
- Frequent urination
- Staggering and poor coordination
- Tiredness or drowsiness
After a few hours, the dog may seem more stable. Meanwhile, toxic breakdown products are forming and severely damaging the kidneys. Later signs include loss of appetite, vomiting, dehydration, mouth ulcers, rapid breathing, seizures and greatly reduced or absent urination.
Every minute matters
Call a veterinary clinic immediately and set off. Do not wait for symptoms. Bring the product or a photo of the label. The chance of successful treatment is greatest before severe kidney damage occurs.
Do not induce vomiting if your dog is drowsy, unsteady or showing neurological abnormalities. Give no home remedies. A specific antidote can be effective in dogs but must be used very early. This is another reason not to wait.
Prevention in garages and cars
Store all vehicle fluids sealed and high up. Check your car and parking area for leaks. Absorb spills immediately with suitable material and dispose of them correctly. Block access until the area has been thoroughly cleaned and is dry. Even products advertised as more pet-friendly must remain inaccessible.
Do not let your dog drink from unknown puddles in car parks or workshops. Keep fresh water in the car in winter so thirst does not provide extra motivation.
Food cannot neutralise a poison
Milk, fatty food or salt do not stop the toxic effects. After successful treatment, special nutrition may be necessary because of possible kidney strain. A vet must determine this based on laboratory results.
Note: any possible antifreeze ingestion is an immediate veterinary emergency.
Sources
- Reference: MSD Veterinary Manual: Ethylene Glycol Antifreeze Poisoning
- Reference: Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine: Small Animal Toxins
- Reference: Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine: First aid for poisonous substances
Advice tailored to your dog
Review your dog’s individual diet
Take the independent PET42 food check now: after veterinary treatment is complete, we help put an approved diet into practice with suitable quantities.
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