Use Pet-Safe De-Icer Instead of Rock Salt This Winter

Rinse your dogs' feet when they return from a romp in the snow to remove any salt-based de-icers your neighbors may have used. Elisabeth Abramova/Shutterstock

Q: Icy sidewalk season is here. I’ve heard rock salt is hard on dogs’ feet, but I’m not sure what to use in its place. Can you suggest a de-icer that won’t harm my dogs?

A: Look for de-icers labeled as safe for pets. These products are also safe to use around children.