The most romantic day of the year is just around the corner. Will your pet stay safe this Valentine’s Day? Keep the love in the air by avoiding a pet emergency—use these tips from a Crown Point, IN vet to keep your dog or cat safe from harm.
Sweet Treat Safety
You’re probably already aware that chocolate and pets don’t mix. Chocolate of all types contains caffeine and a chemical called theobromine, both of which can cause serious health symptoms in our four-legged friends. Candy is another common Valentine’s Day hazard—since many candies and gums are sweetened with an artificial sugar called xylitol that can poison pets, it’s safest to keep your furry friends away.
Poisonous Plant Life
Lilies are common in floral arrangements and bouquets this time of year. Did you know that they’re one of the most dangerous flowers out there for our feline friends? Lilies may also harm our canine companions. Take steps to remove lilies from your home, garden, and/or landscaping; that way, no pets have a chance of coming in contact with them.
Roses, another common Valentine’s Day flower, aren’t poisonous to pets. However, the sharp thorns along rose stems can harm a pet who manages to get their paws on a rose. Keep roses out of your pet’s reach to avoid any danger.
Beware of Alcohol
Will your Valentine’s Day festivities include alcoholic beverages? Remember that pets and alcohol don’t go well together. It turns out that alcohol affects animals just like it affects humans! Even small amounts, though, can cause poisoning in our animal companions. This goes for wine, liquor drinks, beer, and champagne—never let your pet have access to alcoholic beverages, and never give them alcohol of any sort on purpose.
Caution Around Candles
Use caution if you’re lighting candles to set a romantic holiday mood. When pets are allowed close access to candles, they may burn themselves on the open flame or hot wax. There’s even the chance that a startled pet could knock over a candle entirely, potentially starting a fire! It’s safest to set up candles in areas where pets won’t have access.
These aren’t the only holiday hazards out there. If you would like more information on keeping your pet safe during your Valentine’s Day celebration, call your Crown Point, IN animal hospital. We’re here to help with all of your most important pet-care needs!
