Dog owners across the country are being warned about the danger of antifreeze poisoning as temperatures drop.

Dogs Trust Cumbria has issued the alert, stating that even small amounts of ethylene glycol, commonly found in de-icing products, screen wash, and car engines can be lethal for pets.

Antifreeze's sweet taste makes it enticing for animals, but it can lead to severe illness or even death.

The charity has highlighted signs of poisoning to watch for:

  • Vomiting

  • Lethargy and weakness

  • Unsteady or drunken-like behaviour

  • Increased thirst and urination

  • Rapid breathing

  • Seizures or muscle twitching

According to the charity, if you suspect your pet has ingested antifreeze, contact a vet immediately as prompt treatment is critical.

Charlie Dobson, senior veterinary surgeon at Dogs Trust, said: "Antifreeze is extremely dangerous for dogs, and other pets, because even a small amount can lead to serious, often fatal, health issues.

"Unfortunately, because it has a sweet taste it can be particularly enticing to pets.

"The best way to protect your dog is to keep all antifreeze and de-icing products securely stored, avoid using them around your dog, and seek veterinary care immediately if you suspect they’ve ingested any."

The charity has also provided guidance for dog owners on how to keep their pets safe during the colder months:

  1. Keep warm: Consider letting your dog's fur grow longer and buying them a sensible winter coat, especially if they're a short-haired breed.
  2. Keep dogs on leads: Dogs can easily get lost in snow so keep your dog on a lead, ensure microchip details are up to date and that they're wearing a collar and ID tag.
  3. Wipe after walks: Grit from roads and dampness from snow or rain can irritate dogs' skin, so it's important to wipe their legs, feet, and stomach after walks.
  4. Avoid ice: Dogs Trust warns that letting dogs run on ice can be dangerous for both dogs and owners, as the ice may not be thick enough to support their weight.
  5. Increase visibility: As the days grow shorter, wearing a high-vis jacket and using a reflective collar, lead, and high-visibility coat for your dog can help ensure safety.
  6. Check leads: Regular checks of dog's leads, collars, and harnesses are recommended to ensure they are functioning safely and aren't damaged by the winter weather.
  7. Consider indoor games: If the weather is bad, making sure your dog has plenty to do indoors, like hide and seek or 'find it' can help keep them entertained.

For more tips and advice, visit www.dogstrust.org.uk/coldweather.