How to tell if a dog drank antifreeze
You rarely get a confession. Pair scene clues with behavior changes and 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 further access and wipe paws or fur if contaminated
- Note the product name, approximate amount, and time of exposure
- Call poison control and head toward an emergency clinic immediately
- Do not wait for symptoms — early treatment is time-critical
- Bring the product label with you
Scene clues
Bright fluid under a car, sticky paws, chewed plastic jugs, or a garage door left open are classic setups.
If another pet in the household is also sick after garage time, say that.
Behavior clues
Sudden wobbliness, nausea, or acting drunk after outdoor or garage time raises concern.
Absence of a dramatic sign does not clear a high-suspicion exposure — still seek advice.
This is general information, not a diagnosis. Contact your vet for anything urgent or unclear.
FAQ
- Is there a home test strip I should buy first?
- Do not delay ER care to shop for tests. Go in and let the clinic decide diagnostics.