Lau Salvador
No one knows our dogs better than us dog owners. We know their favorite toys, favorite sweet spots and their favorite foods and treats too. Speaking about doggie snacks, some people give their dogs commercial dog treats, some Rawhide bones so they have some fun while enjoying their treat, while other love to give home made snacks such as slices of chicken, apple and cheese.
What if we told you that you that some food manufacturers have recently shifted to adding an ingredient to one of your dog’s favorite treat that can be as deadly to them as chocolate is?
The ASPCA has issued a statement, warning dog owners about this deadly ingredient and encourage dog owners to always check the label.
The said deadly ingredient is xylitol, a sweetener that’s healthy for people and recommended for diabetics. It is naturally sourced and offers great dental benefits for human teeth. But not everything that is safe for human consumption is safe for dogs too. It only takes a very small amount of this sweetener to KILL a dog.
“It can be purchased in a granulated form for baking and as a sweetener for cereals and beverages,”warns the ASPCA.
It’s no secret that dogs go crazy over peanut butter. Unfortunately, a lot of peanut butter manufacturers have shifted to using this ingredient as a sweetener. Xylitol is also ever present in other widely consumed products such as sugar-free gum and mints, nicotine gum, chewable vitamins, oral-care products, and baked goods.
Xylitol is confirmed to be present on peanut butter brands Nuts ‘N More and Krush Nutrition. Make sure to always read the label before you buy treats and foods for your dog. While many peanut butter brands use xylitol, there are a lot more that don’t so you can always find one that works for your dog.
Tiny amounts of xylitol can lead to drop of blood sugar and liver failure. Here’s a chart that explains how much xylitol is deadly for dogs.
If you notice your dog is acting strange, such as head pressing, bring him to the vet immediately. Head pressing is a sign of xylitol poisoning.
To ensure you dog’s safety, you can actually make your own peanut butter at home. Just roast peanuts (amount is entirely up to you), throw in a blender, add a pinch of salt and voila, you have your own homemade peanut butter without the risk of poisoning your dog!
We wish nothing more than your dog’s well-being! Don’t forget to check the label!
Source: http://www.aspcapro.org/sites/pro/files/xylitol.pdf
http://www.fda.gov/AnimalVeterinary/NewsEvents/CVMUpdates/ucm244076.htm
Photo credit: https://pixabay.com/en/dog-puppy-smile-cute-pet-dogs-425067/
