A recent story from CBS3.com shares a good reminder for dog owners.  Xylitol, a popular sweetener in mints and sugar-free gum can be deadly to dogs.  

One family in Philadelphia got lucky, their dog was treated in time.  But the article shares that Pennsylvania has already had 104 reports of accidental xylitol ingestion this year; New Jersey's had 126 (according to the Animal Poison Control Center).  Up nearly 40 percent between 2006 and 2009. http://cbs3.com/topstories/Dogs.Owners.Pets.2.1800980.html

Veterinarian Janet Tobiassen Crosby says "Signs of toxicity can be seen as quickly as 30 minutes after xylitol ingestion in dogs.  The xylitol causes a rapid release of the hormone insulin, causing a sudden decrease in blood glucose. This in turn may cause the following symptoms:
Vomiting
Weakness
Ataxia (uncoordinated movements)
Depression
Hypokalemia (decreased potassium)"
http://vetmedicine.about.com/od/toxicology/qt/xylitol_tox.htm

Should you ever suspect your dog has chewed on or ingested gum, mints, or candy that contains xylitol, take them immediately to the vet.

Wishing you and your pet(s) the best,

Susan Thixton
Truth about Pet Food
Petsumer Report
www.TruthaboutPetFood.com