Dogs

　　Nowadays, xylitol is not unfamiliar to us; chewing gum advertisements have brainwashed us with this ingredient. However, while this substance is a blessing for diabetics, it is lethal to dogs.
　　A recent study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association points out that the sugar substitute xylitol, commonly used in chewing gum or desserts, may cause liver failure and even death in dogs. Last year, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) received reports of 170 dogs suspected of illness after ingesting xylitol, among which five died.
　　Researchers from the ASPCA selected eight cases of canine xylitol poisoning reported between 2003 and 2005 for study. They found that every dog showed signs of illness after consuming xylitol-containing products, and five died from severe liver failure. One dog had even eaten four xylitol-containing treats. Researchers stated that even small amounts of xylitol in dogs trigger massive insulin release, causing a rapid drop in blood sugar that could be fatal. Dog owners are strongly advised to keep their pets away from xylitol.
　　Dogs and humans have different nutritional needs. Many foods that are healthy for humans are deadly to dogs. Before raising a dog, owners must learn more to prevent their dogs from accidentally ingesting dangerous foods.