Sweetener 'xylitol' could kill your dog

The sweetener used in these gums is called Xylitol and is used to replace sugar in sugar free foods.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals' (ASPCA) Animal Poison Control Center said the number of xylitol poisoning in dogs has risen from 82 reported cases in 2004 to 3,700 cases in 2014, according to CBS News.

Certain animal welfare organizations have called for warning labels on any product with Xylitol.

A dog eating even half a gram of xylitol can suffer a few illnesses, but ingesting a pack of gum or a tray of treats containing xylitol can be deadly, Dr. Levitin said.

Human bodies absorb the sweetener slowly, while dogs tend to absorb it quickly, within just half an hour of consumption.

Falk says xylitol may cause dogs to vomit, show weakness, tremors, seizures and without immediate veterinary attention, the pet could ultimately die. It also can cause liver failure.

Xylitol, when taken by humans, is absorbed slowly in the body. A recent report in the Wall Street Journal explains that accidental dog poisonings are increasing at an alarming rate; all due to foods and candy with the artificial sweetener xylitol.

It wasn't long before they learned that the Xylitol had done more than make her sick, it was about to kill her. The kidney tests came back and they indicated her kidneys were shutting down.

Dr Ashley Gallagher with the Friendship Animal Hospital in Washington says the key is vigilance on the part of dog owners.

If you see that foods in your home contain the ingredient, just place it in an area where your pets can't get to it and if you have any questions, contact your local veterinarian.

They say that, first of all, people should really understand that their dogs are usually nosy little creatures that get bored very easily or get hungry all the time.


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