Xylitol the sugar substitute found in many chewing gums can be very hazardous to your dogs health. I know this news is about a year old but it seems that many people still do not know about it.

In humans xylitol has very litle affect; however in dogs the initial response causes a significant increase in insulin levels which drops blood sugar dramatically since no real glucose has been produced from ingestion of the Xylitol. This can be treated however the long term toxic effects in dogs is that it causes liver failure and bleeding disorders.

So if your dog ingests any sugar free product that contains Xylitol be sure to get him to your vet and call the National Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435. There is a fee for the life saving information so have your credit card available. A 20 lbs dog only needs to eat 3 to 4 pieces of gum to cause a problem.

Here is a Press release from the AVMA last year on the danger - Sugar Substitute May Be Dangerous to Dogs Health

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