Is Prestone Driveway Heat Safe For Pets?

Pets are an important part of our lives, and their safety is always a top priority. As winter approaches, many homeowners find themselves in search of effective ice melt products to keep their driveways and walkways clear. One popular option is Prestone Driveway Heat, but is it safe for our furry friends?

The short answer is yes, Prestone driveway heat is generally safe for pets. The heating system operates at a low temperature, typically around 120 degrees Fahrenheit. This is too low to cause burns or other injuries to pets.

However, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure the safety of your pets when using Prestone driveway heat:

Make sure your pets have access to a warm place to rest. Pets may want to avoid the driveway or walkway if it is heated. Make sure they have a warm place to rest, such as a garage, dog house, or pet bed.
Monitor your pets’ behavior around the heated driveway or walkway. If you notice your pets avoiding the driveway or walkway, or if they seem to be in discomfort, turn off the heating system and allow the driveway or walkway to cool down before allowing your pets back on it.
Be aware of the potential for burns. While Prestone driveway heat is generally safe for pets, it is still possible for them to get burned if they come into direct contact with the heating system. Be especially careful with young pets and pets with sensitive skin.

The Ingredients

Prestone Driveway Heat is primarily made up of calcium chloride, which is a common ingredient in many ice melt products. Calcium chloride works by generating heat when it comes into contact with moisture, melting the ice and snow. While it is effective in preventing slippery surfaces, it is important to consider its potential impact on pets.

Potential Risks

Although calcium chloride is generally considered safe for use around pets, it can still pose some risks. If ingested in large amounts, it can cause gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting and diarrhea. In addition, prolonged exposure to calcium chloride can irritate a pet’s paws, leading to discomfort and potential skin damage.

Precautions to Take

While using Prestone Driveway Heat, it is important to take certain precautions to ensure the safety of your pets:

Keep your pets away from the treated areas until the ice melt has completely dissolved or been removed.
Wipe your pet’s paws with a damp cloth after they have come into contact with the treated surface to remove any residual ice melt.
Consider using pet-friendly ice melt alternatives that are specifically designed to be safe for animals.

Here are some additional tips for keeping your pets safe when using Prestone driveway heat:

Keep your pets’ paws clean and dry. Salt and other deicing materials can irritate your pet’s paws and make them more susceptible to burns. Be sure to rinse your pet’s paws with warm water after they have been outside in the winter.
Trim your pet’s nails regularly. Long nails can get caught on the heating system and cause injuries.
Supervise your pets when they are outside. This will help you to identify any potential problems early on.

Conclusion

Prestone Driveway Heat can be an effective option for melting ice and snow on your driveway, but it is important to consider the potential risks to your pets. By taking the necessary precautions and ensuring your pets’ exposure is minimized, you can safely use this product without compromising their well-being. However, if you have concerns or if your pet has a pre-existing health condition, it is always best to consult with your veterinarian before using any ice melt product.