When it comes to keeping our pets safe and healthy, it’s important to educate ourselves on what’s best for them. This is especially true when it comes to using items like ice packs to help with their comfort. Many pet owners may be wondering if gel ice packs are toxic to dogs – and the answer may surprise you. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at the effects of gel ice packs on dogs, as well as tips to use them safely. We’ll also explore some alternative cooling methods to help keep your pup feeling their best. From the potential risks of using these items to how to use them properly, this blog post will provide you with the information and resources you need to make the best decision for your pet.
A Note on Discontinued Ice Packs
Today’s ice packs rarely contain highly toxic ingredients. The most hazardous chemical currently present in ice packs is ammonium nitrate. Discontinued ice packs, however, might still contain ethylene or diethylene glycol. Since ethylene glycol is a component of antifreeze, you may already be aware of how toxic it is.
You should be extremely worried if your dog consumed an ice pack that you purchased years ago but completely forgot about.
Lethargy, vomiting, low body temperature, seizures, and coma are among the first symptoms of these substances’ poisoning. The dog will eventually appear better, but they will be dehydrated. Their breathing and heart rate become elevated. The last stage is kidney dysfunction. They will experience severe kidney pain and improper urination as a result. This can lead to vomiting, seizures, coma, and death.
What happens if my dog ate a gel ice pack?
Usually, water, propylene glycol, cellulose, and silica gel are the ingredients used to make gel ice packs. Although they are typically not very toxic, these can still result in minor problems.
Some gel packs contain sodium polyacrylate. Although this is typically considered non-toxic, larger doses can be problematic for dogs.
Confusion, loss of balance and coordination, vomiting, and shaking or tremors are typical symptoms. It may cause neurological symptoms and damage in large doses.
Ice packs and numerous other household items, such as pet-safe antifreeze, contain propylene glycol. However, it is toxic in larger amounts.
Small amounts can cause stomach and mouth irritation. This can lead to vomiting and loss of appetite.
Larger doses can result in tremors or shaking, depression, loss of coordination, weakness, and slowed breathing. Increased thirst and urination are common.
Low blood pressure, unconsciousness or incomprehensibility, seizures, and heart failure are examples of severe symptoms.
Can dogs chew on ice packs?
Ice packs, in general, are not a concern. They primarily consist of propylene glycol (ppg), cellulose (starch), and urea, which are not harmful to monogastric animals like dogs. Ppg is much less toxic than ethylene glycol. Generally speaking, the ppg is not a concern unless you notice signs of intoxication
FAQ
Is the gel in an ice pack toxic?
Most freezer packs contain non-toxic, biodegradable gel, typically made of cellulose or polymers. Other additives in some goods could be preservatives, sodium chloride, minerals, water, or dye.
Are Hellofresh ice packs toxic to dogs?
Will my dogs be ok? Hey Lizzy. We use a non-toxic mixture of water and sodium salt to create our ice packs.
Can dogs have ice packs?
Cold therapy is often performed using ice packs. You can buy specialized dog packs or make your own using plastic bags and a ratio of 1 part water to 3 parts alcohol. Never apply the frozen material to the dog’s skin directly when using ice packs.