Hey there! Don't worry, I'm here to help. First off, it's great that you're reaching out right away. Bella's health is super important, so let's get into it.
Extra gum and many other sugar-free gums do contain xylitol, which can be harmful to dogs, causing a rapid release of insulin and potentially leading to hypoglycemia (a drop in blood sugar levels) and, in severe cases, liver damage. Here's what you need to watch for:
- Vomiting
- Lethargy or weakness
- Loss of coordination or walking difficulty
- Seizures
The toxicity threshold for xylitol can be as low as 50 mg per pound of body weight. Depending on Bella's size and how much she might have eaten, this could indeed be serious, so let's play it safe.
Here's what I recommend:
- If Bella shows any symptoms like those above, this is an emergency. You should call your vet immediately or take her to an emergency clinic.
- If she's acting normal and you just found out, it's still a good idea to reach out to a vet for guidance specific to Bella's size and health status.
At home, you can keep an eye on her, but don't try to make her vomit unless instructed by a vet. Providing a small meal might help slow absorption if it was only a short time ago, but again, getting advice from a vet is important.
You're doing the right thing by taking this seriously, and I'm hopeful she’ll be just fine with the right care. Feel free to get direct advice from a vet if you’re unsure or her symptoms worsen.
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.
