Schweikert’s Bill Champions Pet Safety Against Xylitol Threat

Arizona Congressman David Schweikert has introduced a bill aimed at enhancing pet safety through improved labeling requirements for products containing xylitol. This legislation seeks to amend the federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, mandating that foods with this chemical clearly indicate its harmful effects on pets.

The bipartisan effort, known as the Paws Off Act of 2025, was inspired by an emotional petition from 11-year-old Ahana Kameshwar following the tragic loss of her dog, Loki. Schweikert engaged in a video conference with Ahana, during which she shared her heart-wrenching experience.

Xylitol, an additive commonly found in items like mints, baked goods, and medications, poses significant risks to pets. The current absence of clear labeling creates a dangerous gap in consumer awareness, which can lead to fatal consequences for animals.

Ahana recounted the circumstances surrounding Loki’s death, explaining how he ingested a harmful dose of xylitol after accessing a forgotten bottle of melatonin pills. “The xylitol was listed, but the dosage wasn’t. Loki ingested about 85 tablets. His liver started failing, and we had to put him down,” she conveyed to the congressman.

The dangers of xylitol exposure affect millions of households, as highlighted by the Poison Pet Helpline. This risk extends beyond food, often involving medicines, dental products, and even skincare items. Veterinary experts, including Dr. Renee Schmid and Dr. Ahna Brutlag, emphasized the rapid and dangerous effects of xylitol on dogs, which can lead to life-threatening conditions if not addressed promptly.

In her petition, Ahana urged Congress to support the Paws Off Act, advocating for greater awareness around xylitol’s dangers. “We can save so many pets by making these changes!” she declared, reflecting the urgency of her mission.

Congressional researchers estimate that approximately 50% of U.S. households own dogs, underlining the necessity for public education on this issue. Despite efforts from the FDA to raise awareness, many pet owners remain oblivious to the dangers xylitol presents.

Schweikert expressed commitment to advancing this straightforward yet vital legislation, asserting that improved labeling could mitigate the heartache experienced by families like Ahana’s. “All it takes is a simple labeling fix to prevent more people from enduring the heartache that Ahana went through and to save the lives of animals across America,” he stated.