My Dog Ate Gum in Kittery, ME: What Do I Do
Our dogs love exploring and are guided by their curiosity – and their noses! Unfortunately, this can often lead to them consuming things they shouldn’t, like gum. Why is gum dangerous for dogs? The main concern is a sugar substitute known as xylitol, commonly found in many types of gum. Xylitol is harmless to humans but can be extremely toxic to dogs.
The Toxic Impact of Xylitol on Dogs
Ingesting xylitol can lead to a rapid and severe drop in a dog’s blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia), which can occur within 10-60 minutes of ingestion. This can cause symptoms such as weakness, uncoordinated movements, collapse, and even seizures.
What To Do If Your Dog Ate Gum: Immediate Actions
Assess the Situation
If you catch your dog in the act or suspect they’ve eaten gum, the first thing you’ll want to do is determine how much and what kind of gum they have consumed. This can help inform the urgency of the situation.
Contact Your Vet Immediately
If you’re in or around Kittery, Maine, reach out to us immediately at Piscataqua Animal Hospital on (207) 439-2661. Even small amounts of xylitol can be harmful to your pet. Don’t hesitate to call, no matter the amount of gum consumed.
Treatment Options If Your Dog Ate Gum
Inducing Vomiting
In some situations, your vet may instruct you to induce vomiting in your dog to expel the gum. However, never do this without the express direction of a professional veterinarian.
Veterinary Care and Treatment
When you arrive at Piscataqua Animal Hospital, we’ll likely run a series of blood tests to assess the dog’s blood sugar levels and liver function. Depending on the amount of gum consumed, the treatment may involve hospitalization, administration of dextrose (sugar), and close monitoring.
Preventing Future Incidents: Keep Gum Out of Reach
Just as you would child-proof your home, consider pet-proofing it too. Keep all gum and other xylitol-containing products out of your dog’s reach.
Piscataqua Animal Hospital: Your Local Kittery, Maine Vet
Here at Piscataqua Animal Hospital, we’re committed to ensuring your pet’s health and wellbeing. If you ever suspect your dog has eaten gum or any other toxic substance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
Remember, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. You can reach us at (207) 439-2661 or book an appointment online at https://pahvet.com/.
Our team offers comprehensive vet services, from emergency care to wellness checkups, to ensure your furry friend’s optimal health. We’re just a call or click away.
Remember, knowledge is the first step towards preventing accidents. Keep an eye on your dog’s environment and potential hazards. But rest assured, if an emergency arises, Piscataqua Animal Hospital is here to help.