Popular sweetener TOXIC to dogs

There apparently has been some specualtion that this may somehow be linked to the recent pet food recalls....but even if it isn't, it is information ALL pet owners should know!

Sweetener xylitol can be toxic to dogs

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals' Animal Poison Control Center is warning veterinarians, their staff, and pet owners that the xylitol—a sweetener found in some sugar-free chewing gums, candies, and other products can cause serious—possibly life-threatening problems for dogs.

Dogs ingesting large amounts of products sweetened with xylitol may have a sudden drop in blood sugar, resulting depression, loss of coordination, and seizures, according to Dr. Eric K. Dunayer, a consulting veterinarian in clinical toxicology for the poison control center. The center is most concerned about products in which xylitol is the primary ingredient.

"These signs can develop quite rapidly, at times less than 30 minutes after ingestion of the product," Dr. Dunayer said in a statement. "Therefore, it is important that pet owners seek veterinary treatment immediately."

Some data suggest a link between xylitol ingestion and liver failure in dogs, he said, though those data are insufficient to draw firm conclusions.

Dr. Dunayer published a case study on xylitol toxicosis in the April 2004 issue of the journal Veterinary and Human Toxicology.

http://www.avma.org/onlnews/javma/sep04/040901c.asp

Another article, more lengthy....


http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/...weetener_N.htm

Actually dogs don't need to ingest large amounts. Due to the fact that most companies will not release the amount of xylitol contained in the product ingested, most pets that are exposed must get looked at as quickly as possible and be monitored for minimum 12 hours. However in rare cases, liver failure can be seen in 24-48 hours. I have seen this way too often.