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.

Some Safety Tips

When changing antifreeze keep your pets indoors and make sure any spills are washed away.

Avoid spilling antifreeze on the ground and don't drain radiators into ditches or storm drains.

Keep new antifreeze in its original container.

To store used antifreeze before disposal, put it into a clearly labelled, sealed container.

Recycle or dispose of it at a garage with appropriate facilities for disposing of antifreeze. It can
also be disposed of on Household Hazardous Waste Collection Days.

Keep antifreeze off the floor and away from pets.

Wipe up and wash away any spills.

Don't let your pet drink from or walk in puddles in streets or driveways.

If your pet returns home covered with an unknown substance, wash it off immediately.

Winter auto window washing fluids and products to prevent freezing in plumbing can also contain ethylene glycol (EG), the poisonous ingredient in antifreeze,. Check the ingredients, and if it contains EG, treat it the same as antifreeze.

Switch to non-toxic Propylene Glycol formulated antifreeze.