SALEM, Va. (WDBJ) - Each year, emergency clinics nationwide see a sharp rise in holiday-related pet illnesses—many tied directly to foods that are toxic to dogs and cats.

This year, the Salem Animal Hospital said veterinarians are especially concerned about an artificial sweetener called Xylitol. It was once limited to sugar-free gum but is now found in hundreds of everyday items, including:

• Peanut butter

• Baked goods

• Drink mixes

• Toothpaste

• Vitamins & supplements

• Sugar-free candies

• Protein bars

• Nut butters

• Even some holiday desserts

“A peanut butter cookie or a piece of sugar-free candy may seem harmless, but even a small amount of xylitol can be life-threatening. We’re seeing more cases because xylitol is being added to more products—and families often don’t

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