I made some jello for dessert and my dog keeps begging for a taste. Is it safe for him to have a little bit, or should I keep it all to myself? Thanks!

Hey there! It's great that you're checking before sharing your jello treat with your dog. I totally get that those puppy eyes can be hard to resist! When it comes to jello, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Plain gelatin itself isn't toxic to dogs, but you'll want to watch out for a couple of common ingredients:

• Sugar and artificial sweeteners: Xylitol is very toxic to dogs, even in very small amounts, so make sure your jello doesn't contain this sweetener. If your jello is sugar-free, double-check the label.
• Flavorings: Some flavored jello might contain artificial flavors that aren't the best for dogs, or even real fruit like grapes, which are toxic to dogs.

If your dog happens to sneak a small lick of plain, regular-sugar jello, it's usually not something to worry about. However, watch for any signs of distress like vomiting, diarrhea, or unusual lethargy.

If your dog shows any of these signs, especially if they might have ingested xylitol, it's important to get in touch with a vet immediately. Symptoms of xylitol poisoning can include weakness, staggering, and seizures, which are considered emergencies.

If your jello is free of harmful ingredients and you decide to share a tiny taste, just keep it as a rare treat. Monitor your pup to make sure they don't have any adverse reactions.

If you're unsure or your pet’s symptoms worsen, it's best to book a call with a vet on Dial A Vet for professional advice.