Dog owners are being urged to beware the risks posed by rock salt and grit to paws as winter temperatures arrive in the UK. Leading animal charity Dogs Trust said rock salt used to melt ice can cause soreness, cracking, redness, bleeding and even burns due to its abrasive texture. Ingesting the substance such as by licking their paws after a walk can irritate the digestive system, leading to vomiting, diarrhoea, excessive thirst, tremors, seizures, and, in severe cases, if they eat large quantities, kidney damage or coma. The trust has advised owners to check their dog's paws after every walk and wipe them to remove any salt or grit including checking between the toes. Pets can also suffer severe illness or even death due to ingesting antifreeze with even small amounts posing a deadly risk, with its sweet taste making it tempting for animals to drink if left in accessible areas or spills on driveways and roads. Dogs Trust said the liquid contains a chemical that can cause acute, irreversible kidney failure and neurological issues. Symptoms of poisoning may not appear immediately, but early signs to watch for include vomiting, lethargy and weakness, unsteadiness on their feet, increased thirst and urination, rapid breathing, and seizures or muscle twitching. Anyone who suspects their pet has ingested antifreeze should contact a vet immediately as prompt treatment is critical to prevent irreversible damage or even death. The faster treatment begins, the better the chances for a full recovery. Other tips for dog owners during colder weather include:

• Keep dogs warm, with particular care for puppies, elderly and short-haired pets.
• Avoid frozen bodies of water.
• Increase visibility such as a reflective collar, lead and coat.
• Check leads, collars and harnesses for rust and wear and tear.
• Keep dogs on leads in the snow, which can be disorientating, and ensure four-legged friends are wearing a collar and ID tag and microchip details are up to date.
• Consider indoor games to keep dogs stimulated while spending more time indoors than usual.

Charlie Dobson, a senior veterinary surgeon at Dogs Trust, said: "Many dogs love to walk, regardless of the weather. But winter brings with it some hidden dangers for dogs. "With freezing weather forecast, we’re sure to see the gritters out to make our roads and pavements safe for people, but grit can be problematic for dogs. "Many people don’t realise that the salt and grit spread on roads can irritate a dog’s paws and, if licked off, can cause stomach upset or even poisoning. "Simply checking and wiping your dog’s paws after a winter walk can go a long way in preventing issues. "Antifreeze is also extremely dangerous for dogs, and other pets, because even a small amount can lead to serious, often fatal, health issues. "Unfortunately, because it has a sweet taste it can be particularly enticing to pets. "The best way to protect your dog is to keep all antifreeze and de-icing products securely stored, avoid using them around your dog, and seek veterinary care immediately if you suspect they've ingested any."