As a holiday that celebrates love and sweetness, Valentine’s Day seems innocuous enough. However, many of the treats and gifts associated with this special day can be harmful to animals. To help you enjoy the festivities without putting your four-legged friend in danger, here are a few pet health tips to keep in mind.

3 Pet Health Dangers to Avoid This Valentine’s Day

1. Chocolates & Candies

While chocolates may be a luxurious treat for humans and a traditional Valentine’s Day gift, they’re a major pet health danger. Theobromine, an alkaloid naturally found in chocolate, is highly toxic to pets even in small doses. After ingestion, animals may experience an increased heart rate, seizures, and serious digestive issues such as diarrhea and vomiting. Keep all chocolates stored securely out of your furry friend’s reach. 

You should also be careful with sugar-free candies. Many of these products contain xylitol, an artificial sweetener that can cause low blood sugar, seizure, loss of coordination, and liver failure in dogs. If your hungry pooch manages to get into a bag of sugarless butterscotch from your beau, call your veterinarian or the 24-hour Pet Poison Hotline at (800) 213-6680. 

2. Flowers

Curious cats and dogs love to chew on floral arrangements, some of which may be poisonous. Lilies, tulips, azaleas, and daffodils are all popular flowers that can be toxic to pets. These plants may cause digestive distress, respiratory issues, seizure, and damage to the liver and kidney. If your pet consumes these petals, seek emergency pet health care immediately. 

To play it safe, it’s best to avoid these flowers altogether. Thankfully, roses – a Valentine’s Day staple – are perfectly pet-safe, as long as you’re mindful of the thorns. Orchids are another attractive option.

3. Candles

The glow of candlelight sets the mood for a romantic dinner, but it’s also enticing to animals, especially cats. If pets get too close to the flame, they may burn themselves. Some may even knock the candle over and cause a fire.

Decorate with battery-powered candles instead. If you do light candles, make sure they’re extinguished before you leave the room.

If your pet is injured or has ingested a poisonous substance, seek pet health care at a veterinary clinic immediately. Offering extended and weekend hours, Hilton Veterinary Hospital is a top choice for emergency animal care in Monroe County. Located in Hilton, NY, this veterinary clinic offers comprehensive routine and emergency services, including surgical intervention. Whatever your situation, trust these specialists to provide compassionate care in a responsive, affordable, and stress-free fashion. Visit the clinic online to learn more about their veterinary service or call (585) 392-2937 to schedule an appointment.