Chicago, IL – As the first winter snow spreads across Illinois, veterinarians are warning pet owners to take extra care during cold-weather walks. The road salt and chemical de-icers used to clear streets, sidewalks, and parking lots can burn paw pads, irritate skin, and cause toxic reactions when pets lick or ingest them.
Most ice-melt products contain sodium chloride, calcium chloride, or magnesium chloride, chemicals that work fast against ice but are harsh on pets’ paws. Even brief exposure can lead to dryness, cracking, or burns. When dogs lick their feet after contact, they can swallow toxic amounts of salt, which may cause vomiting, diarrhea, excessive thirst, or lethargy. In more severe cases, veterinarians warn, salt poisoning can result in seizures or kidney failure.
Illinois uses one of the highest volumes of road salt in the country—especially across the Chicago metro area—making exposure more likely during the winter months. Some commercial de-icers and private treatments also contain industrial additives or heavy metals, which increase the risk of long-term toxicity when pets are exposed repeatedly.
Veterinarians recommend rinsing a dog’s paws with warm water after each walk and drying them thoroughly to remove residue. A paw balm or wax applied before heading outdoors can prevent irritation, while trimming fur between the toes helps keep salt and slush from accumulating. Booties can provide an added layer of protection for dogs that tolerate them. At home, owners should use chloride-free, pet-safe ice melts on driveways and walkways.
With temperatures dropping into the 20s and 30s and a mix of snow and freezing drizzle expected through the weekend, veterinarians urge pet owners to limit outdoor exposure and monitor paws for signs of irritation, limping, or licking.
As winter weather settles across Illinois, experts remind residents that the biggest seasonal hazard for pets isn’t always the snow—it’s the chemical residue left behind to clear it.
