Ice-melt products containing harmful chemicals pose a serious risk to animals and the environment. When applied, these products leave residue that animals may ingest directly or through contact with treated surfaces. It can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and more severe symptoms like convulsions or kidney damage. These incidents are not isolated. According to the Pet Poison Helpline, ice-melt ingestion is a common concern during winter, with hundreds of emergency calls received annually. From an article called                        " Gardening Success Tips", rock salt causes chemical burns on animal paws within minutes. Over 10,000 dogs are treated each year for salt injuries. Wildlife like foxes, raccoons, and deer are affected too. Salt runoff harms birds and contaminates soil for months.

Safer alternatives include sand, grit, pet-safe ice melt, and simply shoveling early and often. We conducted a poll, and 68% of people did not know the impact of ice-melt (animal safety & ice melt). We want to protect animals in our community. There are pet-safe ice-melt alternatives made from natural, non-toxic materials like calcium magnesium acetate or sand. These alternatives are not only safer for pets but also environmentally friendly, reducing harmful runoff into waterways.

Municipalities and governments need to prioritize these options to safeguard ourselves, our animals, and the planet. By reducing the amount of toxic ice-melt products and replacing them with pet-safe alternatives, we can transform our communities into safe havens for pets, wildlife, and young children. It's time for local authorities, retailers, and consumers to recognize the importance of this change. Please sign this petition to urge lawmakers to reduce the amount of toxic ice-melt products and protect our animals. Together, we can create a safer environment for all.  Your signature can make a difference in saving countless animals from unnecessary suffering.  In addition,  we encourage all state legislators to pass a law banning traditional road salt from all sidewalks.

Sources:(animal human society),(EPA, “Salt: Research | US EPA”)