Helsinki has begun an official study to understand how winter anti-icing treatment of streets and road salt affect the health of dogs' paws, reports Helsingin Sanomat and ERR.
Since 2021, many pet owners in the Finnish capital have noticed alarming symptoms in their pets after walks on streets treated with salt.
Residents of Helsinki, especially dog owners, have increasingly reported that their pets lift their paws and make whimpering sounds or show signs of pain after walking on salted sidewalks. Many associate this with the use of calcium chloride, which is widely used to combat ice on bike paths and sidewalks.
While an official scientific link between salt and symptoms in dogs has not yet been established, city authorities have decided to begin data collection and study the situation.
The Helsinki City Council has proposed several ways to gather information. They have chosen several options: an online survey for residents (open until the end of February), where dog owners can describe their observations, consultations with veterinarians and canine organizations. A special group of owners has also been created to regularly report on paw problems in their pets and walking conditions during the winter.
The goal is to better understand which ice control methods are safe for all residents, including animals.
Just a year ago, the Helsinki regional animal protection organization Hesy and the Finnish Kennel Club demanded to limit the use of salt on the streets. In their opinion, the chemicals used to combat slipperiness can cause pain in dogs, chemical burns on paw pads, and even vomiting after pets lick their paws.
At the same time, city authorities emphasize that treating roads with salt and other agents is important for the safety of pedestrians and cyclists in winter conditions.
Why road salt can be dangerous for dogs: experts on the risks
Although there are no official conclusions yet, the opinions of veterinarians and researchers suggest that salt mixtures can indeed create problems for pets:
Irritation and pain: salt mixed with ice can get between the toes and on the paw pads, causing dryness, cracks, and painful sensations. This is confirmed by veterinary advice from international sources.
Licking paws: after walks, dogs may lick their paws, leading to salt ingestion, stomach irritation, and even toxicity if sodium concentration becomes too high.
Thus, the concerns of Helsinki residents have a biological basis, and current research aims to objectively determine the scale of the problem.
Practical tips for dog owners in winter
To protect your pet's health during the winter period when roads are treated with agents, experts provide the following recommendations:
Before the walk
Use protective boots for dogs - they create a barrier between the paws and aggressive agents.
Apply protective balms or wax to the paws to create a protective film that reduces salt contact with the skin.
During the walk
Avoid areas with coarse salt, choosing untreated paths or snowy trails in parks whenever possible.
Try not to let your pet lick their paws during the walk - this will reduce the risk of swallowing salt particles.
After the walk
Rinse the paws with warm water to remove any remaining salt and sand.
If you notice redness, cracks, or tenderness, consult a veterinarian - even seemingly safe wounds can lead to inflammation.
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