Antifreeze danger

[AnimalLover]

Every year, thousands of companion animals and wildlife die agonizing deaths after drinking spilled antifreeze, attracted by its sweet taste.

There is a pending Congressional bill, H.R. 1563, that would require antifreeze to contain a bittering agent so as to render it unpalatable to animals. The bill needs co-sponsors so, everyone who hasn't done so already, please contact your federal representative and ask him or her to cosponsor it. It's as easy as sending an email. Go to www.congress.org (http://www.congress.org), enter your zip code, and you will be provided with email links to your elected officials.

We have to speak up for our furry friends who can't.

[tatsxxx11]

Thanks for the link!! I'll definitely send the email. This has always been a major concern of mine. As well, D-Con has a sweeting agent to attract "pests." Dogs love the taste. We have had several doggies on Pet Talk who accidently ingested some.:( Happily, all recovered though!

[AnimalLover]

tatsxxx11, thank you for replying and letting me know you will be sending an email. I hope everyone here at PT will do so.

About D-Con rodent poison: Yes, people have to be extremely careful and intelligent about where they place it. I have heard so many sad stories of pets dying painful deaths after eating it. And it was all so unnecessary.

Antifreeze is one of the most dangerous household hazards to pets, wildlife, and children. One teaspoon of antifreeze can kill an eight pound cat, and as little as two ounces can kill a twenty pound dog.

Antifreeze works quickly. Within 30-60 minutes, the animal shows signs of depression, has a look of fear, and loses coordination. Then vomiting is soon followed by paralysis, and within 6 to 12 hours, coma, then death. At the first sign of distress -- or when you have the slightest suspicion that the animal has ingested antifreeze -- rush it to the veterinarian's office or an animal emergency hospital. The quicker the animal is treated, the more likely it is to recover.

Keep animals out of the area when using antifreeze and make sure that any spills are washed away.
Don't let your pet drink from puddles in streets or driveways!

Here is another link to a pre-composed letter: Action letter (http://cw2k.capweb.net/ddal/letterstate.cfm?letter_id=2655) .
All you have to do is fill in your name & address and it will be sent to your representative.

PetTalkers, please take a few minutes of your time to help innocent animals. Remember, it's the squeaky wheel that gets the oil!

Please keep this thread in the forefront by replying to it after you've sent your letter.

Thank you,
AnimalLover

[KYS]

Thanks for the post.
Antifreez is one reason, I never have let the dogs
in the garage.
Very helpful post.

Thank you

[tatsxxx11]

Just sent my email! The pre-written letter was a great help! It only takes a sec. guys! Hope others do the same:)