Most people are aware that antifreeze can be a dangerous threat to pets, even deadly, depending on how much is ingested.

When antifreeze is properly used and care is taken when filling the radiator, there is no problem. However, if carelessly installed, improperly disposed of, or if it leaks from a vehicle's cooling system, it becomes a danger to pets and wildlife. Animals are attracted to antifreeze because of its sweet taste and only two teaspoons is enough to kill a dog – depending on its size, and one teaspoon is enough to kill a cat.

Ethylene glycol is the toxic ingredient in antifreeze, and toxicologists report that once it is ingested, it is changed into a crystalline acid which attacks the kidneys. It is absorbed into the digestive tract and acts rapidly, usually within a few hours. Symptoms include vomiting, depression, lack of coordination, seizure and weakness. The animal may stagger as though drunk. It may also drink excessive amounts of water if it is available.

The chance of recovery for animals that have swallowed antifreeze depends on how much was swallowed and the size of the animal. The earlier treatment is started by a veterinarian, the better the chance of recovery. If not treated in time, the animal will go into kidney failure and a painful death will follow. Once the kidneys are affected, there is very little chance of recovery.

Dogs and cats allowed to roam freely are the most likely to find a puddle of antifreeze and take a few sips. An animal can be in serious trouble by the time its owner notices there is a problem. Timing is crucial when a pet has swallowed antifreeze and the sooner it gets to a veterinarian, the better the chance for survival. According to an article by Mary Paulsell of the Happy Tails Animal Sanctuary, more than 80 percent of animals with antifreeze poisoning reach the veterinarian too late.

Fortunately, there is a less toxic substance, propylene glycol, which has been used for several years in certain brands of antifreeze. One manufacturer, Sierra, was probably the first to offer the less toxic product. It is said to protect against freezing, overheating and corrosion the same as conventional antifreeze, and it is phosphate-free. A few years ago, I noticed a popular brand antifreeze and was surprised the company was offering the product with the less toxic propylene glycol formulation. Probably several manufacturers now offer the safer alternative. It does cost a little more, probably a dollar or less, but is worth it to save an animal's life.

It recently came to my attention that this special 'less toxic' product, when used in certain vehicles, can become thickened and will look like 'gunk' which will clog the radiator and other systems in a car or truck. If the information booklet which comes with a car specifies a certain kind of antifreeze, believe it.

Even if you do not have a pet, you never know when a roaming dog, cat or wildlife may be attracted to an antifreeze spill in the driveway or the street.

For the do-it-yourselfers who add antifreeze to vehicles, wipe up and wash away any spills. It's best to keep any pets safely behind the fence or indoors when adding antifreeze. Do not place antifreeze containers on the garage or carport floor. Store any unused antifreeze on a very high shelf, preferably behind closed cabinet doors. Check the vehicle frequently to correct any leaks which may occur.

Since colder weather will be here soon, remember to bang on the hood of a vehicle parked outside prior to starting the engine. Cats like to curl up on the engine on cold nights. It only takes a moment to knock a couple of times on the hood and is preferable to mangling or killing an unsuspecting cat.

For years it has been suggested that manufacturers of antifreeze include a bittering agent to make it unappealing to animals, but the companies have refused to add it. Probably something to do with profit.