A Vancouver veterinarian is warning pet owners about the dangers of road salt, which is being used to clear roads and sidewalks following Sunday's big snowstorm.

Dr. Michael Bratt of the Granville Island Pet Hospital said the salt can get caught in paw pads and fur and may make animals sick.

"Most animals aren't going to actually eat the salt," he said. "But it's more licking it from their own coats if they get it caught in their fur."

Bratt said the salt can upset animals' digestive systems, causing vomiting and diarrhea.

He said the best way to prevent an animal getting sick is to wash its paws when it gets home.

He also said pet-friendly salt is available in stores and is clearly labelled on the bag. 

The other cold-weather toxic hazard is vehicle anti-freeze, which attracts animals by its sweet taste.