Manchester, NH – With the first winter snows spreading across New Hampshire this weekend, veterinarians are reminding pet owners to protect their animals from a hidden cold-weather hazard: road salt and chemical de-icers. These products, widely used to melt ice and snow, can burn paw pads, cause chemical irritation, and lead to toxic reactions if pets lick or ingest them.
Most commercial de-icers contain sodium chloride, calcium chloride, or magnesium chloride, which can irritate and dry out the skin on a dog’s paws. Repeated exposure can cause painful cracking or sores. When dogs clean their paws after a walk, they may swallow the chemicals, putting them at risk of salt poisoning.
Veterinary studies show that ingesting even small amounts of salt can cause vomiting, diarrhea, excessive thirst, and lethargy, and in serious cases, may result in seizures or kidney failure. Long-term exposure can also damage paw pads and other internal organs. Some road salts include heavy metals or industrial residues, adding further risk to pets’ health.
To reduce harm, veterinarians recommend rinsing or wiping a dog’s paws with warm water after each walk and drying them thoroughly. Applying a protective balm or paw wax before going outdoors can help create a barrier against salt, while trimming fur between the toes prevents buildup. Booties are also effective for dogs that tolerate them, and owners should use pet-safe, chloride-free ice melts on their own properties.
With snow and freezing temperatures forecast across New Hampshire, experts urge owners to stay alert for limping, paw licking, or reluctance to walk on treated surfaces. Even brief exposure to salted sidewalks can cause discomfort or injury, especially for smaller breeds.
As the first winter snows settle in, veterinarians emphasize that the greatest risk for pets isn’t always the cold itself—but what’s spread on the ground to fight it.
