Warning: Salt Toxicity in Dogs
The Dangers of Salt Toxicity in Dogs: What You Need to Know
Hello, everyone. It’s winter, and with the ice and snow comes the use of ice melt products—many of which are salt-based. Did you know that too much salt could actually kill your dog? Poison control centers receive numerous calls this time of year related to salt toxicity in dogs, often because our pets lick this ice melt off their paws. Today, I want to talk about salt toxicity, how to recognize it, and what you can do to keep your dog safe.
How Salt Toxicity Happens
Salt toxicity is a serious and potentially fatal issue that often arises during winter. When we spread salt to melt ice, our pets can end up stepping in it, and as they lick their paws, they ingest dangerous amounts. There are other surprising sources of salt, too—like paintballs, which contain a high amount of salt. In the past, we used to induce vomiting for cases of salt ingestion, but this is no longer recommended due to the risks associated with salt toxicity.
Salt toxicity can also occur chronically. For example, if a dog is trapped in a garage without water for an extended period, their sodium levels can skyrocket.
Signs of Salt Toxicity
So, what are the signs of salt toxicity? When your dog has extremely high levels of sodium in their bloodstream, it draws fluid out of the other body cells. Initially, you will see gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea, though these symptoms can easily be confused with other conditions.
You’ll also see increased drinking and urination, especially if your dog has been stepping in salt and licking it off their paws. If salt toxicity progresses to advanced stages, it can lead to seizures, coma, and even death.
You might be surprised at just how little salt it takes to cause a problem. For example, a small five-pound Chihuahua could experience serious salt toxicosis from as little as one teaspoon of salt. Imagine your dog walking outside, stepping on salt-covered pavement—if their wet paws pick up enough salt, licking them can lead to toxicity.
Immediate Steps to Take
If your dog is only showing mild gastrointestinal symptoms—such as intermittent vomiting or a bit of diarrhea, with no other signs of weakness or neurological issues—they will likely recover just fine. Here are some things you can do to help:
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Wipe Their Paws
First, wipe your dog’s paws thoroughly to remove any salt and prevent further ingestion. -
Encourage Water Consumption
Next, get them to drink as much water as possible. Extra fluids will help dilute the sodium level in the bloodstream, which is exactly what we want to bring those levels down quickly and safely.
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When to See a Veterinarian
If you notice any neurological symptoms such as weakness, wobbling, trembling, or seizures, your dog needs immediate veterinary attention. At the veterinary clinic, your dog will likely receive intravenous fluids with a minimal amount of sodium—such as a 0.45% sodium chloride solution. The veterinarian may also use warm water enemas to help draw sodium out of the body as quickly as possible.
Important Reminders
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Do Not Induce Vomiting with Salt
Never use salt to induce vomiting in your dog for poisoning. Instead, always opt for hydrogen peroxide, which is safer for pets. -
Avoid Activated Charcoal for Salt Toxicity
Activated charcoal is not recommended for salt toxicity, as it can maintain elevated sodium levels in your dog’s system. -
Prevention Tips
Prevention is always better than cure. If you’re walking your dog outside in the snow and ice, consider using booties to protect their paws. If your dog doesn’t wear booties, make sure to use a damp cloth to wipe their paws thoroughly after each walk. By doing this, you’ll significantly reduce the risk of salt toxicity and keep your dog safe this winter.
Stay safe out there, and take care of your furry friends!
