Is Ice Melt Bad for Dogs?

We often turn to ice melt and similar de-icer products because they spare us, and our pets, from the dangers of slipping and sliding on ice. However, even products labeled as pet-friendly may contain chemicals with minor, yet potential, risks for pets and wildlife.

“Any dog exposed to ice melt, irrespective of size, breed or age, is susceptible to adverse clinical signs,” warns Dr. Alex Blutinger, an emergency care veterinarian. We asked experts to weigh in on the advantages and disadvantages of using ice melt, and gathered their thoughts on DIY de-icers and pets.

Is Ice Melt Bad for Dogs?

That depends on how you view the pros and cons. It’s true ice melt can cause irritation or burns on paws and skin, or even make animals sick if ingested.

De-icers containing calcium chloride and other chemicals can be especially harmful to pets, says Dr. Renee Schmid, senior veterinary toxicologist and veterinary supervisor at the Pet Poison Helpline.

Nonetheless, the hazards of slipping on ice can be equally or more perilous for humans and pets. By following precautions or seeking out pet-friendly alternatives, pet parents can minimize risks and ensure safe winter walks.

Why Is Ice Melt Bad for Dogs?

Ice melt products work by combining salt (sodium chloride) with other chemicals (magnesium chloride, calcium chloride, or potassium chloride) to change the melting point of ice and snow. This differs from rock salt, or chunks of naturally occurring sodium chloride (salt) without added chemicals.

According to Case Western University, when calcium chloride and certain chemicals like magnesium chloride react with water, they change in structure and form acids. These acids don’t just accelerate the rusting of cars. They can also burn paw pads and cause havoc if ingested.

Signs of ice melt ingestion

Schmid says the chances of serious problems are relatively low if your dog only licks a small amount of ice melt from their paws.

However, because the mix of calcium chloride and other chemicals becomes really acidic when mixed with water, ingestion of ice melt can cause ulceration of the skin, mouth, esophagus and stomach.

Signs your dog ingested ice melt include:

• Vomiting;
• Diarrhea;
• Drooling;
• Panting;
• Lethargy;
• Loss of appetite.

“If a large enough amount of chemicals are ingested, dogs may develop neurologic symptoms, such as seizures, tremors and muscle weakness,” says Bluntinger.

If you notice these signs or persistent vomiting, lethargy, lack of appetite, diarrhea or panting and pacing, take your pet to the emergency vet right away.

NOTE: If you’re unsure if your pet requires medical attention or if something they ingested is toxic, veterinary toxicologists can be reached 24/7 at the Pet Poison Hotline, toll free: 855-764-7661.

Signs of ice melt chemical burns

Your pup’s paws are most at risk of burns caused by ice melt. Signs to look out for include:

• Red, irritated paws;
• Excessive paw licking;
• Ulcerated lesions;
• Swelling;
• Bleeding.

Preventing your dog from licking the affected area is a good first step. You should also gently clean the area with a damp cloth. But if your dog is in pain, there’s an open wound or if the area looks infected, Blutinger suggests taking your dog to the emergency vet.

Keeping Your Dog Safe and Dog-Friendly Ice Melt Alternatives

Prevent contact with harmful winter chemicals by lathering paw wax on your dog’s paw pads or dressing them in dog booties, if they’ll oblige.

Blutinger recommends shopping for pet-safe de-icer alternatives like Safe Paw. It’s free of salt and acetate, which means it’s non-corrosive and made from naturally occurring material that’s not harmful if ingested in small amounts.

Alternatively, you can make your own ice remover spray from rubbing alcohol or white vinegar and water. Schmid says if your pet walks in a sprayed area, “it would likely only cause mild skin irritation, if anything.”

About the Experts

Dr. Alex Blutinger is the medical director of Veterinary Emergency Group in White Plains, New York and Greenwich, Connecticut.

Dr. Renee Schmid is a senior veterinary toxicologist and veterinary supervisor at the Pet Poison Helpline. She’s also a diplomate of the American Board of Toxicology.