| T O P I C R E V I E W |
| Jen |
Posted - Jan 04 2008 : 11:53:09 AM
After hearing this, xylitol isn't an option in our house - I don't even let our relatives bring it here!
The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center cautions animal owners that xylitol, a sweetener found in certain sugar-free chewing gums, candies, baked goods and other products can potentially cause serious and even life-threatening problems for pets.
According to Dr. Eric Dunayer, veterinarian and toxicologist for the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, dogs ingesting significant amounts of items sweetened with xylitol could develop a fairly sudden drop in blood sugar, resulting in depression, loss of coordination and seizures. “These signs can develop quite rapidly, at times less than 30 minutes after ingestion of the product. Therefore, it is crucial that pet owners seek veterinary treatment immediately.” Dr. Dunayer also stated that there appears to be a strong link between xylitol ingestions and the development of liver failure in dogs.
While it was previously thought that only large concentrations of xylitol could result in problems, this appears to no longer be the case. “We seem to be learning new information with each subsequent case we manage,” says Dr. Dunayer. “Our concern used to be mainly with products that contain xylitol as one of the first ingredients. However, we have begun to see problems developing from ingestions of products with lesser amounts of this sweetener.” He also says that with smaller concentrations of xylitol, the onset of clinical signs could be delayed as much as 12 hours after ingestion. “Therefore, it is important to keep in mind that even if your pet does not develop signs right away, it does not mean that problems won’t develop later on.”
The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center strongly urges pet owners to be especially diligent in keeping candy, gum or other foods containing xylitol out of the reach of pets. As with any potentially toxic substance, should accidental exposures occur, it is important to contact your local veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center for immediate assistance.
For more information on potentially dangerous substances in the home or to reach the APCC, please call (888) 426-4435 or visit www.aspca.org/apcc
Jen
Farmgirl Sisterhood Member #9
The View From My Boots: www.bovesboots.blogspot.com
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| Elizaray |
Posted - Jan 10 2008 : 10:44:35 AM
Thanks for the information Jen! I would hate to give my dog something I thought was a treat for her, only to damage her system!
Elizaray |
| Jen |
Posted - Jan 04 2008 : 11:57:48 AM
Wow - on the subject of dog (and cat) dangers, check out this list. There is more in-depth info on each hazard at http://www.petalia.com.au/Templates/StoryTemplate_Process.cfm?specie=Dogs&story_no=257
Chocolate toxicity
Onion and garlic poisoning
Macadamia nuts
Pear pips, the kernels of plums, peaches and apricots, apple core pips
Potato peelings and green looking potatoes
Rhubarb leaves
Moldy/spoiled foods
Alcohol
Yeast dough
Coffee grounds, beans & tea (caffeine)
Hops (used in home brewing)
Tomato leaves & stems (green parts)
Broccoli (in large amounts)
Raisins and grapes
Cigarettes, tobacco, cigars
Jen
Farmgirl Sisterhood Member #9
The View From My Boots: www.bovesboots.blogspot.com
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