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Treatment

Your veterinarian may suggest several methods to induce vomiting. However, this does not always improve the dog's condition.

If the dog has low blood sugar or serum potassium, your veterinarian will place the animal on a fluid therapy regimen. The dog will also undergo frequent blood tests to assess the progression and degree of the xylitol toxicity, and to assess the animal's liver function.

Living and Management

Dogs suffering from low blood sugar alone tend to recover well, but if liver damage occurs, the prognosis is guarded to poor. Blood glucose levels will be monitored for at least 24 hours; liver enzyme tests should be repeated often for at least 72 hours.

Prevention

Check the ingredient list of all your household products which may contain xylitol (gums, candies, toothpaste, etc.). Place those items containing xylitol in locked cabinets or areas too high for your pet to access. If your dog is extremely persistent about stealing food, it is probably best not to have xylitol in your home.