One of the most common small animal toxicities is caused by the ingestion of antifreeze containing ethylene glycol. Antifreeze has a sweet taste to it which makes it appealing to dogs and cats. Typically, exposure occurs when antifreeze is drained from the car's radiator and is lapped up by the pet. It takes less than 3 ounces to poison a 40 pound dog. The poison primarily affect the brain and kidneys.

Signs of toxicity are dose related and usually occur within 30 minutes to 12 hours after ingestion. They include:

• Depression
• Vomiting
• Uncoordinated "drunken" gait
• Seizures

*Coma and death can occur in a matter of hours. Dogs that recover from acute intoxication frequently develop kidney failure 1 - 3 days later. Death is common.

Treatment: If you see or suspect that your pet has ingested even a small amount of antifreeze, immediately induce vomiting. (To find out how to induce vomiting click here.) Then immediately take your dog to your veterinarian. If treatment will be delayed, administer activated charcoal to prevent further absorption of the ethylene glycol. A specific antidote is available to treat the poisoning, but is most effective when administered shortly after ingestion and early in the course of treatment. The animal will need to be hospitalized in order to try and prevent kidney failure.

Prevention: This source of poisoning can be prevented by keeping all containers of antifreeze tightly closed and properly stored, preventing antifreeze spills and properly disposing of used antifreeze. A new antifreeze product (trade name Sierra) contains propylene glycol instead of ethylene glycol. Poisoning causes uncoordination and possible seizures, but is alleged not to cause fatal kidney damage.