He ate a bag of gum, because it smelled tasty. What he didn't know, is that it was sweetened with xylitol and almost died.
He ate a bag of gum, because it smelled tasty. What he didn't know, is that it was sweetened with xylitol and almost died.
Our goal is simple: no dog should suffer because a family didn't know the danger was hiding in an everyday product. Through awareness, advocacy, and action, we can help ensure that every pet owner has the information they need to keep their dogs safe.
Most people have never heard of xylitol. Yet this increasingly common sugar substitute is one of the most dangerous toxins dogs can encounter in an ordinary home.
Xylitol is found in sugar-free gum, mints, peanut butter, toothpaste, candies, baked goods, supplements, medications, and even some household products. In humans, it’s considered safe. In dogs, even a small amount can trigger a rapid insulin release that causes severe hypoglycemia (dangerously low blood sugar), seizures, liver failure, brain injury, or death.
At Paws Off, we believe pet owners deserve clear warnings before tragedy happens.
We are working to raise public awareness, educate families, support veterinarians, and pursue legislation in California requiring clear warning labels on products containing xylitol and similar dog-toxic sweeteners.
One moment of awareness can save a life.
Each piece of this gum has 1 g of xylitol. There is no warning on the package.
Every year, thousands of dogs in the United States are exposed to xylitol-containing products. Many owners have no idea the ingredient is dangerous until it is too late.
Dogs are naturally attracted to sweet smells and flavors. A single pack of gum left in a backpack, purse, glove compartment, or nightstand can become a life-threatening emergency within minutes.
Unlike many toxins that take hours to affect the body, xylitol poisoning can begin rapidly.
Symptoms may include:
Immediate veterinary treatment is critical.
This package was ripped open by a 90 lb labrador with about 50 pieces inside. All 50 were ingested.
The Paws Off Legislative Initiative
Paws Off is building support for California legislation that would require prominent warning labels on products containing xylitol and other highly dog-toxic sweeteners.
Proposed Goals
1. Mandatory Warning Labels
Require visible warnings such as:
“WARNING: Contains xylitol. Extremely toxic to dogs.”
Warnings should appear:
2. Expanded Ingredient Transparency
Encourage manufacturers to:
3. Retail & Veterinary Education
Partner with:
4. Public Awareness Campaigns
Promote statewide education through:
WARNING: Contains xylitol. Extremely toxic to dogs.