GRIT used on roads during snowy and icy weather can be dangerous for pets, leading to burns, vomiting and even kidney failure, warns PetSafe® a world leader in pet containment, training, and lifestyle solutions.
With many areas of the UK expected to be hit by snow as the Arctic blast begins, gritters will be out in full force, with icy weather forecast in Warrington during the week ahead.
But while the rock salt used on the streets might help make travel safer for pedestrians and motorists, it could prove perilous for our pets, global pet brand PetSafe® warns.
“We’d like to remind pet owners of the dangers associated with rock salt used on roads and pavements as temperatures and snowfall, and we’re urging them to be cautious,” says PetSafe’s Rob Steele.
“The rock salt, or grit, used to melt snow is very toxic to dogs – and cats. Those tiny granules can really irritate the skin on their paws – especially if they’re dry and cracked – and the chemicals that grit contains can also burn them.“After being outdoors, dogs and cats will be inclined to lick or chew it off their paws and fur, which brings with it many health risks. As does drinking puddles of melted snow that contains it. Ingestion of rock salt can result in a high blood sodium concentration, which leads to vomiting, lethargy, convulsions and kidney damage. So, make sure you thoroughly wipe their feet and clean any exposed fur on their legs or stomach as soon as you get home.
“It’s best to minimise contact in the first place, so we recommend that owners avoid walking their dogs in areas that have been gritted. If you’re concerned that your pet may have ingested rock salt, contact your vet immediately and follow their advice.”
You can find out which roads your council will grit here.
For further information visit http://uk.petsafe.net/
Weather forecast for Warrington
Today:
Sunny spells developing in many places through the day, but some areas staying cloudier. Remaining largely dry but isolated showers are possible, mainly in coastal regions. Breezier and feeling colder. Maximum temperature 6 °C.
Tonight:
Largely dry with clear periods overnight but the odd wintry shower is possible in coastal areas. Cold and breezy and turning very frosty, especially inland. Icy patches are likely. Minimum temperature -5 °C.
Monday:
Dry and mostly sunny on Monday, though an isolated snow or hail flurry is possible. Feeling very cold, especially in the brisk northerly breeze. Wintry showers and icy patches overnight. Maximum temperature 3 °C.
Outlook for Tuesday to Thursday:
Periods of rain, sleet and snow on Tuesday, with the potential for travel disruption in places. Probably drier and sunnier on Wednesday and Thursday. Staying cold with frost and ice.
Updated: 04:00 (UTC) on Sun 14 Jan 2024
