Xylitol poisoning warning.

 

Xylitol is a sugar substitute which is often used in sugarless gums and candies. Cases of Xylitol poisoning have been becoming increasingly more common over the past few years.

 

Xylitol is dangerous to our pets because it acts differently with their metabolism than it does ours. In dogs, Xylitol causes rapidly lowering blood sugar levels leading to hypoglycemic crisis. This is similar in nature to what a diabetic would experience if given an overdose of insulin. The chemical also damages the liver and can cause abnormalities in the blood.

 

Xlitol poisoning is all too often fatal to our pets. Symptoms including vomiting, depression, weakness, diarrhea, seizure, collapse, coma and even death in some cases. Progression of the illness can be quite rapid.

 

If you suspect your pet has ingested Xylitol, you should contact your veterinarian immediately. Poisoning can occur with even a very small amount of Xylitol being ingested. Death has occurred by eating just one stick of gum containing Xylitol.

 

Check the labels of sugarless candies and gums and keep them out of the reach of your pets.

 

 

                               SPRINGTIME HAZARDS__________________

 

Lawn chemicals and fertilizers can be hazardous to dogs and cats

 

When the grass gets green in the springtime, many of us begin using various pesticides, fertilizers, weed killers and chemicals on our lawns and in our gardens. However, many of these chemicals can be dangerous to our dogs and cats because many of them are poisonous, some even in small quantities.

 

Cocoa mulch is poisonous for dogs and cats.

Cocoa mulch is commonly used in gardens and flower beds. However cocoa mulch contains theobromine, a chemical known to act as a poison in dogs and cats. Dogs and cats can be attracted to cocoa mulch by the odor and taste as well. As a result, cocoa mulch can be quite dangerous to your dog or cat.

 

Plants and flowers can be dangerous to your dogs and cats.

Many plants and flowers are known to be poisonous to your dogs and cats who chew on leaves. Examples of plants and flowers which may be a danger to your pets are:

 

                                                           Rhododendrons

 

                                                           Japanese Yew

       

                                                           Easter Lily

 

                                                           Foxglove

And many others. We have a whole list of poisonous plants. Ask a receptionist for a copy.

 

Flower bouquets are beautiful to look at but can be dangerous to your pet. Valentines Day and Easter are rapidly approaching so remember to put all chocolates (which can also be toxic to your pet), flower bouquets and plants out of their reach.