In search of deicer that won't hurt pets

Q Is there a deicer that's safe for concrete and doggie paws?

A There probably is no deicer that's "safe" for concrete and pet feet, but some are safer than others. All should be used sparingly.

Safe Paw Ice Melter (www.safepaw.com) is less irritating to pet paws than traditional sidewalk deicers and better for the environment, according to National Geographic's Green Guide.

When ice won't yield to snow shovels, ice chippers are the tools to use. They're available at hardware and home stores for $15 to $30.

If they're not available, or don't do the job, then spread deicer. But read the labels and pick your product carefully:

• Sodium chloride (rock salt) kills plants and grass, poisons soil and can lead to concrete problems and damage metal.

• Calcium chloride works at very low temperatures, but also can result in concrete problems.

• Safe-Walk (www.safe-walk.com), a corn-based product, contains the chlorides found in traditional deicers and will work in subzero temperatures, yet it's supposedly safer for lawns and gentler on pet feet.

In any case, it's a good idea to use as little deicer as possible and to protect trees and plants from deicers.

Another option might be to spread sand, sawdust or kitty litter to give you some traction on ice. They can be mixed with a chemical deicer.

But realize that any product you spread on steps, sidewalks and driveways will be tracked into your house. It's a good idea to set up a long walk-out mat at entrances, and develop the habit of removing shoes and boots at the door.

More on warm beds In response to a previous column about electric blankets and mattress covers, readers offered some alternatives for keeping toasty warm in bed:

Another option is to heat a Bed Buddy -- those wraps designed for shoulders, backs -- in the microwave and then spread it on the bottom sheet to pre-warm the bed.

Shirley Grindstaff writes: "Since putting fleece sheets on our bed (better than flannel), we have not used the electric blanket at all. The fleece sheets are very warm and cozy."