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NEW TOXIN WARNING FOR DOGS: XYLITOL
A sugar-free sweetener called xylitol has recently been shown to be very toxic to dogs. Xylitol is present in many baked goods, desserts, toothpastes, other oral care products, and sugar-free gums and candies. It can also be purchased as granulated powder for baking. In 2005 there were 193 products sold in the US that contained xylitol.
Doses as low as 0.6 grams per pound of body weight have caused severely low blood sugars and acute liver failure! That dose is equal to approximately 5 cookies, 1 muffin, or 5 pieces of gum containing xylitol in a 35 pound dog. The dog usually becomes very lethargic approximately 30-60 minutes after ingestion due to life-threateningly low blood sugar levels. Then 9-27 hours later the dog may show signs of vomiting, diarrhea, jaundice, bruising on gums and thin-skinned areas, and profuse bleeding. These later signs can be indicative of severe acute liver failure.
Treatment is required immediately! If you know or suspect your dog has ingested a product containing xylitol, contact your veterinarian or emergency veterinary facility as soon as possible. Expect at least an overnight stay, and possible multiple days of IV fluids and blood tests. Prevention is the key! Keep all potential xylitol-containing products in a secure place, out of the way of your curious and hungry furry friends.
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