Antifreeze on dog paws
Skin contamination becomes an oral dose when dogs groom. Wipe first, then call.
Do this first
| Scenario | Antifreeze (ethylene glycol) exposure |
|---|---|
| Vet vs poison control vs ER | This is both a poison-control and ER emergency. Call the hotline while driving to the ER. Do not treat this as a wait-and-see home case. Antifreeze exposure can progress from seeming intoxicated to kidney failure. |
Immediate action steps
- Prevent licking; wipe paws and fur with absorbent cloths
- Use lukewarm water to rinse after bulk fluid is wiped away if the pet will tolerate it
- Keep the product label
- Call poison control and your ER-capable clinic
- Transport if directed — do not assume wiping finished the problem
Wipe before rinse when coats are soaked
Bulk fluid comes off with towels first so you do not spread it deeper into the coat.
Protect your own skin with gloves if available. Wash your hands after.
Why grooming matters
Dogs re-dose themselves by licking paws. An E-collar can help during transport if you have one.
Mention how long the fluid was on the coat before you noticed.
This is general information, not a diagnosis. Contact your vet for anything urgent or unclear.
FAQ
- Can I use a degreaser soap from the garage?
- Stick to gentle dish soap if a clinician agrees. Do not use harsh solvents on skin.