Press Release Issued
Thursday 29th November 2007
Anti-freeze poses danger to pets and wildlife
Animal Concern Advice Line (ACAL) has issued a warning on the danger anti-freeze poses to animals. Ethylene glycol, the active ingredient in most types of anti-freeze, has a sweet taste which attracts animals. Ingesting only small amounts can cause a slow, painful death.
Drivers are asked to make sure any spillages are quickly cleaned up and that the chemical is always stored in its closed original container well out of the reach of animals and, of course, children.
Owners who think their cat or dog may have swallowed anti-freeze are advised to seek veterinary treatment for their pet immediately.
This warning has been prompted by the death of Barrie the cat, the much loved pet of the Els family of Kintore in Aberdeenshire. Despite intensive veterinary care Barrie had to be put down on 28th November, 8 days after being diagnosed with kidney and liver failure caused by ethylene glycol poisoning. On 17th November a neighbour’s cat also died from anti-freeze poisoning.
John Robins of Animal Concern Advice Line states: “We get reports of this year after year. Many people just do not understand how dangerous anti-freeze is to animals. Any spills must be cleaned-up immediately. Drivers should consider buying newer products containing propylene glycol which is less toxic. It would also help if manufacturers added a bitter taste and repellent smell to these products.
Sadly some people do know how toxic anti-freeze is and deliberate poisoning is not unknown. This is a serious criminal offence and must be fully investigated by the police. As well as animals young children are at risk from careless or malicious handling of toxic materials.
With a cold snap expected this weekend people may be topping up the anti-freeze in their cars. I urge them to be extra careful when handling this dangerous chemical.”
ENDS
EDITORS NOTES: Press Release by e-mail from: John F. Robins, Secretary, Animal Concern Advice Line, c/o Animal Concern, P.O. Box 5178, DumbartonG82 5YJ. Contact numbers: Tel 01389-841111., Mobile: 07721-605521. Fax: 0870-7060327. Animal Concern Advice Line is a recognised Scottish Charity: No. SC030982
E-MAIL: acal@jfrobins.force9.co.uk Website: http://adviceaboutanimals.info
For Further info/pictures/comment re Barrie the cat please contact:
John Els; info@antifreezekills.co.uk.
His excellent new campaign website is here: http://www.antifreezekills.co.uk | 