A new danger is presenting itself to our pets and it’s one that is not very obvious. Xylitol, a sugar alcohol found in many products, can be extremely toxic to our pets such as dogs and ferrets. It is a natural product, so it can be found in items that are listed as natural or organic, and may even be listed as a natural sweetener. Xylitol is not toxic to humans, but can cause severe and even fatal issues in our dogs. In quantities as low as 0.1 gram per kilogram of body weight (which is about 0.01 oz per pound), it can cause hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar. This means that a 10 lb dog could eat as little as one mint or one piece of gum and show symptoms of hypoglycemia. Symptoms of this include staggering or “drunk” walking, drooling, appearing disoriented, weakness, collapsing, seizures, or even death. At doses of 0.5 gram per kilogram of body weight (roughly equal to 0.04 oz per pound), a more serious issue occurs-liver damage, which can lead to liver failure and death. Signs of liver damage can include changes in appetite, vomiting, jaundice or yellowing of the skin, eyes, and gums. Because it is non toxic to humans, it is often used in various […]
Learn MoreAh summer. Season of backyard get togethers, bonfires, and barbeques. Everyone wants to sit back, relax, and enjoy, not worry about the pets. Use these tips to make sure everyone has a relaxing, enjoyable, and safe summer! Sunscreens and insect repellents are not all pet safe. Some contain ingredients that may cause stomach upset such as vomiting and diarrhea, others contain products which may cause neurologic issues (dilated pupils, drunken walking, head tilt, incoordination, etc). Make sure you are using a pet safe product or skip it all together. However, do note that pets with thin hair or white hair can get sunburn, so make sure shade is available! Everyone’s brought a dish to share, so we can share with the pet, right? Wrong. People foods may cause a variety of issues for pets. Some cause an upset stomach, or gastroenteritis, which may cause vomiting and diarrhea, or pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas which may require hospitalization). Others may be toxic to pets-grapes, raisins, alcohol, chocolate, onion, garlic, and avocado being some common ones. Artificial sweeteners such as xylitol, which can be found in sugar free products like gums and candies, or in lower calorie foods as a sugar substitute, is also toxic to dogs. Lastly, things like rib bones, chicken bones, and […]
Learn MoreHeritage Animal Hospital is a full-service veterinarian clinic that provides examinations, diagnostic services, dental care, surgical services, medicine, grooming and boarding services in Maple Grove, Minnesota. We are dedicated to providing the highest level of pet care possible and facilitating an environment where client communication and education are at the forefront of our practice.
12624 Base Lake Road
Maple Grove, MN 55369
Mon-Fri: 7:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Sat: 7:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.