The Wonder of Dogs 10-11
Artificial sweetener is deadly for dogs
Editor’s Note: The idea for this article was suggested by author Barbara Kahn’s dear friend, Dr. Marvin Rothman.
Xylitol is an artificial sweetener commonly found in sugar-free gum, candy and baked goods.
While it may be a good choice for humans who want control their weight or prevent cavities, ingesting it can be deadly for dogs (and ferrets too). Whether present in large or small amounts, xylitol can produce a sudden drop in blood sugar resulting in physical depression, lack of coordination, seizures and even liver failure in dogs. The ASPCA reports a marked increase in xylitol poisoning cases recently.
In addition to the symptoms I previously mentioned, xylitol poisoning may also produce vomiting, diarrhea, pale gums, irregular heart rate and body tremors as shock ensues.
If these symptoms occur, immediate veterinary intervention is essential, since dogs may be in critical condition less than an hour after ingestion.
Veterinary treatment will generally include inducing vomiting, using charcoal to absorb the stomach contents, giving supportive care, such as intravenous fluids, and managing potential liver problems.
These are all harsh, and potentially expensive treatments.
The best approach is prevention. Check the ingredients on all your goodies. If xylitol is one of those ingredients, either dispose of the food in a trash can out of reach of your pet or put it somewhere inaccessible.
If you suspect your dog has eaten anything containing xylitol, check with your veterinarian on how to safely induce vomiting and rush your dog to the nearest veterinary hospital able to handle this emergency.
This is not a “wait and see” situation. It can mean life or death if you wait too long. Barbara Kahn is the training director at WonderDogs, Inc. E-mail her, with “Trend” in the subject line, at barb@wonderdogs.com, call 856-767-6464 or visit www.wonderdogs.com.
Xylitol is an artificial sweetener commonly found in sugar-free gum, candy and baked goods.
While it may be a good choice for humans who want control their weight or prevent cavities, ingesting it can be deadly for dogs (and ferrets too). Whether present in large or small amounts, xylitol can produce a sudden drop in blood sugar resulting in physical depression, lack of coordination, seizures and even liver failure in dogs. The ASPCA reports a marked increase in xylitol poisoning cases recently.
In addition to the symptoms I previously mentioned, xylitol poisoning may also produce vomiting, diarrhea, pale gums, irregular heart rate and body tremors as shock ensues.
If these symptoms occur, immediate veterinary intervention is essential, since dogs may be in critical condition less than an hour after ingestion.
Veterinary treatment will generally include inducing vomiting, using charcoal to absorb the stomach contents, giving supportive care, such as intravenous fluids, and managing potential liver problems.
These are all harsh, and potentially expensive treatments.
The best approach is prevention. Check the ingredients on all your goodies. If xylitol is one of those ingredients, either dispose of the food in a trash can out of reach of your pet or put it somewhere inaccessible.
If you suspect your dog has eaten anything containing xylitol, check with your veterinarian on how to safely induce vomiting and rush your dog to the nearest veterinary hospital able to handle this emergency.
This is not a “wait and see” situation. It can mean life or death if you wait too long. Barbara Kahn is the training director at WonderDogs, Inc. E-mail her, with “Trend” in the subject line, at barb@wonderdogs.com, call 856-767-6464 or visit www.wonderdogs.com.
