PHOENIX — Christmas time is about gathering with the family, drinking eggnog, sharing presents and eating cookies. In all that fun, make sure to keep your eyes on your furry friends to make sure they aren't getting into anything they shouldn't, like candy canes. Did you know that candy canes are actually harmful to dogs?
There is a chemical in candy canes called Xylitol that is a "sugar-free sweetener" that can also be found in some peanut butter products and gum according to Preventive Vet.
Each dog differs in the amount they consume affecting them.
Example: Yorkie versus Labrador - it takes about 4.5kg to affect a Yorkie dog and 31.8kg for a Labrador.
If your dog gets their paws on your candy canes stash, make sure to act fast. 6,000 dogs get poisoned each year.
Here are some of the symptoms:
- Vomiting
- Seizures
- Diarrhea
- Abnormal mental activity
If you notice your dog having these symptoms, call a vet as soon as possible.
For more information you can visit the aspca.org/apcc poison control center. And don't forget to keep your eye on your dog this holiday season.
