If you have products containing the artificial sweetener Xylitol, be sure to keep them away from your dog. The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) has issued a warning against Xylitol, found in many common food and household products. Dogs who ingest even a small amount of this sweetener may see a sudden drop in blood sugar, loss of coordination and finally seizures.

The APCC saw 170 cases in 2005 involving Xylitol, with 114 cases already having occurred in 2006. Some products that may contain Xylitol are sugar-free gums, hard candies, gum drops, toothpastes and mouthwashes. If you are a dog owner, look at the labels of all your artificially sweetened products. If they contain Xylitol, keep them out of reach of your dog.

Is your fish tank water constantly cloudy? Are your fish swimming in a proverbial ocean of green? Before you begin complicated water testing, start with an easy solution. Change your fish food!

Many local grocery and pet stores sell the same standard fish food. Unfortunately, these flaky foods can cloud your fish tank water within a few days. To make your fish tank water crystal clear, take a quick trip to your local pet store.

First, purchase new filter inserts for your water filter, and then begin reading fish food labels. Find one that states it never clouds water. Our favorite brand of fish food is Omega One Natural Protein Formula Freshwater Flakes. Omega one also makes salt water fish food.

You will be amazed at the difference a fish food can make to your tank’s water. Change your filters the day you begin using your new “never clouds water” fish food. It can take up to three or more days before you see a difference, but the difference is amazing. Your fish tank water will soon be crystal clear.

So do your fish a favor – switch your fish food to clear your tank’s water. The solution is easy and your fish will certainly thank you!