What to do if a dog eats gum? - briefly
If your dog has eaten gum, it is generally not considered an emergency unless the gum contains xylitol, a sugar substitute that can be toxic to dogs. In such cases, immediately contact your veterinarian for advice and further instructions.
What to do if a dog eats gum? - in detail
If your dog has ingested chewing gum, it's important to remain calm and take immediate action. Gum can cause serious health issues in dogs due to its ingredients, particularly xylitol, an artificial sweetener that is highly toxic to dogs. Here are the steps you should follow:
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Stay Calm: Your dog will pick up on your emotions, so it's crucial to stay calm and composed throughout the process.
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Check the Ingredients: If you can still see the gum or its wrapper, check for xylitol in the ingredients list. Xylitol is often found in sugar-free gums and candies. Even small amounts of xylitol can be life-threatening to dogs.
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Monitor Your Dog: Keep a close eye on your dog's behavior and look for any signs of distress, such as vomiting, lethargy, or seizures. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately.
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Do Not Induce Vomiting: While it might seem like a good idea to make your dog throw up the gum, this can be dangerous. Some gums contain foaming agents that expand in the stomach and can cause blockages if vomited back up. Additionally, xylitol is rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream, so inducing vomiting may not remove it from the system.
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Contact Your Veterinarian: Regardless of whether you see signs of distress or not, contact your veterinarian right away. They can provide guidance based on the specific type of gum ingested and your dog's size and health condition.
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Follow Veterinary Advice: Your vet may recommend bringing your dog to the clinic for observation and treatment. If xylitol was ingested, they might administer activated charcoal to prevent further absorption of the toxin or provide supportive care such as IV fluids.
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Prevent Future Incidents: To avoid similar situations in the future, keep all gum and candies out of your dog's reach. Educate family members and visitors about the dangers of xylitol for dogs.
By following these steps, you can help ensure your dog receives prompt and appropriate care after ingesting chewing gum.