As with the holidays, there are always lots of treats around during Valentine’s Day-especially if you have kids. From roses to chocolate, the traditional Valentine’s presents are extremely dangerous to your pets. Make sure your February 14th is spent with loved ones rather than in the emergency room with these tips!
Say No to Sweets
Any pet owner should know that their dog should never have access to any chocolate. However, did you know that baking chocolate is even worse for a dog than regular chocolate? Be extra careful if you are baking, and always know where your pet is when you have any chocolate out. In general, any sweets are off-limits, such as candy hearts. Additionally, sweets that are “sugar-free” often contain xylitol, a sweetener that is toxic to pets, so make sure that these are well out of reach for your dog.
Floral Arrangements
Though getting a bouquet of flowers is a great gift for humans, it can be harmful for pets, especially certain types of flowers. Roses often have thorns on the stem, so if you have a curious cat, you may want to consider a different type of flower. Many cats and dogs will try to take a small nibble out of any type of flower, but this can easily cause a reaction; cats are especially susceptible to lilies, as they are poisonous to cats. If you do have plants or a floral arrangement in your home, keep out of reach for dogs, and know if your cat would be likely to investigate the source of the smell.
Ultimately, Valentine’s Day is a day to be with your loved ones-including your pets! Feel free to get them some dog or cat treats so they don’t feel left out, or something like a new collar instead. However, make sure that they steer clear of any sweets or flowers to avoid them getting sick. For more tips, contact Metro Vet!
Courtesy of: Pet MD
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