Our Sheltie, Sasha, wouldn’t pick up food that had fallen to the floor without permission first. At the other end of the behavior spectrum, we have Penny Puppy (who probably thinks her name is No Leave-it Drop-it Off Down and variations thereof since joining the family last week). Penny believes anything on the floor is fair game and all hers, with no permission needed.
Most followers of this blog share their lives and homes with pets; some dogs have been part of our families for years, while others may be recent additions. All of them deserve the best life we can give them–which includes knowing which foods dogs can safely enjoy, and which foods can be hazardous to their health.
And if you have a cat, be sure to check out this excellent article on the same subject from Rover.com.
First, an important message: In 2023, the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) published warnings about the danger of products containing Xylitol. Xylitol is a sweetener used in a wide variety of foods, medicines, and even toothpaste and other oral hygiene product. It’s often found in sugar-free products, but you’ll find it in other things as well.
Always check the ingredient list of any product before purchase; read what’s listed under “other ingredients” or “inactive ingredients” or even “sugar alcohols.” It’s also marketed as wood sugar, birch sugar, and birch bark extract. Go here to see detailed information and a summary list of products containing Xylitol,
Xylitol is toxic to dogs. If you think your dog may have ingested something containing Xylitol, Call your veterinarian, emergency animal clinic, or animal poison control center right away.
On to happier info:
Dog expert and author Mary Kearl has detailed information (updated for 2024) to help you keep your pup healthy and happy at holiday gatherings. Find that here.
Another helpful guide is the image below, courtesy of the Dog Food Advisor. This guide organizes food commonly enjoyed at Thanksgiving and other holidays into three easy-to-see categories.
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Whatever and wherever you celebrate, may the days to come be filled with peace and joy for you and your loved ones!
Excellent, informative, and timely post. Thanks!
Thanks for stopping by. If you get the chance, please pass along the FDA’s information regarding the dangers of Xylitol to our pets!