Dogs and sugar-free sweets

I have two cute lil' ratties who like to sniff for crumbs or sneak a peak in the big forbidden box of delights (the kitchen trash), so I try to keep up on what foods might be dangerous to them. If you have a pup and want to keep him or her safe, add one more to the list -

Dog owners warned against sugar-free items
Commonly used artificial sweetener can cause canine liver failure

Updated: 7:10 p.m. ET Sept 29, 2006

NEW YORK - Keep those sugarless treats out of Fido’s reach. Veterinarians warned Friday that a commonly used sweetener might cause liver failure in dogs, and perhaps even kill them.

Their report in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association appears to strengthen the suspected link between the sugar substitute xylitol, thought to make dogs sick, and possible liver failure.

Xylitol, a naturally occurring product, is found in many sugar-free chewing gums, candies, baked goods and toothpastes.

full article

Protect your furry little friend!

:o)