Xylitol is a sugar substitute used in a variety of foods, including some of dogs' favorite treats like peanut butter. Xylitol is much more toxic to dogs than chocolate. This is because it doesn't take much to cause damage. “It is estimated that as little as 3 grams, roughly the amount found in 8 to 10 pieces of some gum , can kill a 65-pound dog. You'd likely need far less for smaller lap dogs.”
Within hours of consuming, often 30 minutes or less, dogs can experience “a dramatic surge in insulin, resulting in a precipitous drop in blood sugar levels. The result can be weakness, lethargy, seizures and collapse. Without immediate treatment, brain trauma can result in death.”
Before giving any foods to your dog, read the labels and keep any products with Xylitol away from your beloved pet. If you do believe they have gotten a hold of anything with Xylitol, contact your vet immediately or call the 24/7 Animal Poison Control Center at 1-855-764-7661.
Though the above is 24/7, here are other in-country options for our non-US readers:
- Australia – Call the NSW Poisons Information Centre at 13 11 26.
-
United Kingdom – Call the Animal Poison Line at 01202 509000.
This service costs £30 per call as of this post's publishing. - Elsewhere – A quick search online will likely return results for a poison center in your country.
Recent Articles
-
Pumpkinlicious – A Treat for Your Dog
It is easy to find treats for you and your family during the holidays, but what about your dog? Below is a recipe for a quick and easy festive pumpkin treat that will have your dog begging for more! -
Dogs of Service
Veterans Day is a time to honor the men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice serving this great nation. But we also want to take the time to recognize another service member that sometimes gets forgotten: The military dogs that serve alongside these men and women. -
DIY Turkey Meatball Treats
Give your dog a healthy treat to enjoy alongside you and your family this holiday season!! -
Keeping Your Dog Safe This Halloween
It is important to understand that Halloween is not a good night to break out a bark control device, as the stress of the night is going to take precedence over any corrections you try to implement. -
Pumpkin Spice and Everything Nice!
Safe & Toxic Foods for Your Dog The holidays are coming, and soon your house will be filled with the sound of family, friends, and trick-or-treaters at your door – as well as the smell of delicious food wafting from the kitchen. With all the excitement and distractions, it’s easy for your dog to get into things that aren’t safe for them. It is really important for you, and your guests, to know what is safe and not safe for your pet to eat (especially when they’re sneaking them table scraps). Safe foods: These foods are safe to give to...
