Heartworks CPR Warns Dog Owners About Sugar-Free Food Dangers

Heartworks CPR, a leader in pet CPR and first aid training, wants to alert all pet owners about the dangers of sugar-free foods and your dog.  According to a recent report in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, the sugar substitute Xylitol can make dogs sick and perhaps even kill them.

"Xylitol is a common ingredient in many sugar-free gums and candies," said Cindy Zaban, co-founder of Heartworks CPR.  "And if a dog eats these products, it can cause liver failure and even death."

To help protect your pet, Zaban suggests checking your backyard frequently, especially if you have children, for unwanted gum and candy and to be vigilant on walks.

"Kids tend to drop their gum on the ground when they're finished chewing and dogs tend to find and eat that left-over gum.  So check your yard often and avoid places like playgrounds, parks and schools when taking Fido out."

She added, "The most important advice we give our clients, however, is to never share people food with your animals.  What may seem like a special treat could end up poisoning them."

If you suspect your pet may have ingested Xylitol, Heartworks CPR advises you contact your veterinarian immediately.

Founded by Vicki Dank and Cindy Zaban, Heartworks CPR provides American Heart Association and Medic First Aid International training at their Glenview office or at your home, school or place of business.  Heartworks CPR also provides CPR Certification for those professions requiring the accreditation, including health care providers, trainers, flight attendants, education professionals and child care workers.

Heartworks CPR conducts classes on basic life support, first aid, CPR, CPR Certification, Defibrillator Use, strokes, allergic reactions, insect bites, pet first aid and pet CPR.