Snow Traps: How Street Food Scraps Endanger Animals, Vet Explains

In winter, dog hunters may scatter bait in the form of food containing hidden nails or other sharp objects, or pour antifreeze or de-icer on the snow. This can be dangerous for dogs« health and lives. NGS learned from a veterinarian about poisoning symptoms and what should alert pet owners.

According to Larisa Filinova, a veterinarian at the BEST clinic, she has rarely encountered the consequences of dog hunters« activities in her practice.

«It»s worth noting that statistics are hard to determine, as owners often don«t understand the true cause of their pets» ailments, and doctors sometimes lack precise information about what actually happened,« explains Larisa Filinova.

The veterinarian emphasizes that spilled liquids on snow are dangerous for animals. However, it«s difficult to determine what has been spilled — whether it»s children«s juice or antifreeze. The greatest danger, in the specialist»s opinion, will always be pieces of food, as such finds arouse increased curiosity in animals, thus increasing the likelihood of poison entering their bodies.

«The composition of a liquid cannot be determined by appearance, but the most common symptoms of poisoning by various chemicals are: drooling, vomiting, tremor (shaking), apathy or hyperexcitability. In more serious cases, shortness of breath, impaired consciousness, seizures, and other symptoms up to the pet»s death may be observed. And, of course, any of the listed symptoms is a reason to visit a clinic,« added the specialist.

If a person notices a red or pink liquid spilled on snow, it can be covered up to protect animals. It«s also important to warn local dog owners about suspicious liquids or suspicious food remnants on the street, advises the veterinarian.

In November, a fake about the capture of stray dogs spread through Novosibirsk chats. The message stated that they would be placed in a temporary holding facility.