DEAR READERS: Ingestion of the artificial sweetener Xylitol is potentially life-threatening for your dog. When the dog consumes xylitol, the body reacts by producing a big release of insulin. This results in low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and possible liver damage.
Signs of xylitol poisoning include stumbling, shaking, passing out and having a seizure. Liver damage can appear as low energy, loss of appetite and diarrhea.
Which products have xylitol? Diabetic foods and snacks, toothpaste, makeup, lip balm and even medicines.
Read the labels before you bring things home. Keep anything containing xylitol away from your dog. Check with your veterinarian for more information on this artificial sweetener.
DEAR HELOISE: I keep my dog's water in a smaller bowl. This way, the water stays cleaner and fresher. Some think a big bowl is best, but food particles, dust, hair, etc., can fall into the water, and I may be tempted to change it less often. I check the water every day.
-- Hannah G. in California
DEAR READERS: Tailgating is a fun way to socialize and bring your group together before entering the stadium on game day, or before a concert or art festival. Here are some hints:
• Running out of food would be bad. Get a head count, and plan for more folks to drop by as the party continues. Also, make sure you'll have enough tableware, plates and cups.
• Check with the venue to make sure you can tailgate there, and follow the rules to the letter.
• What to serve? Easy-to-consume foods like hamburgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, chips, dips, potato salad, coleslaw, etc. And don't forget the condiments.
• Encourage activities for the crowd: dancing, playing badminton or tossing a football. Make sure there's room enough -- and no cars zooming about.
• Keep a trash container nearby, and encourage guests to be tidy. When the party is over and before you go inside, clean up and dispose of all trash.
DEAR HELOISE: One of my neighbors had a "kindness sale." It is the same as a garage sale, but no money. You can take what you want, but in return, instead of cash, you have to pass kindness on.
-- Barb M. in Colorado
Send a money- or time-saving hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795001, San Antonio, Texas 78279-5000; fax to (210) 435-6473; or email
HomeStyle on 10/19/2019