The symptoms New York experiences when withdrawing from a snowstorm exemplify some of the worst that the city has to offer: slushy street corners, scattered garbage ... and unexpected electric shocks.

Because salt enhances the conductivity of water, the combination of road salt and slush can make even everyday parts of the streetscape, like manhole covers, streetlights, scaffolding and even fire hydrant potentially dangerous. When saltwater saturates concrete near a frayed underground cable, even the sidewalk can become electrified.

Already this winter, several New York City pet owners have reported their dogs getting shocked by stray voltage, though there haven't been any documented deaths from electrified objects on the streets.

According to Con Edison, the power company employs 15 trucks to scan New York City's streets for any stray voltage that could be leaking from damaged equipment, and workers are responsible for guarding and repairing any electrified objects they come across, regardless of who owns it. (The company says about 45 percent of the stray voltage it repairs each year comes from damaged equipment it doesn't own.)

Even so, in a city as large as New York, some instances slip by. Con Edison says its equipment was responsible for 30 shocks in 2016 and 21 shocks last year.

Con Edison is asking anyone who suspects stray voltage should call 1-800-75-CONED to report it. In the meantime, as the snow keeps melting it may be best to keep your pets away from metal objects while out for a walk—or at least strap on rubber-soled booties for insulation.