Valentine’s Day is a time for celebrating the ones we love, including our pets! Unfortunately, some of your Valentine’s Day festivities may be putting your pet’s health at risk. Our team at Homey Gnome Veterinary Clinic is here to ensure your pet is safe this Valentine’s Day. 

Here are a few hazards you should be aware of and how to keep your pet out of harm’s way. 

Toxic Treats

While it may be tempting to share your Valentine’s Day treats with your furry friend, it can also be dangerous. One of the most common toxins pets encounter is chocolate. As a general rule, the darker the chocolate, the greater risk it poses to your pet. However, it is always best to avoid any variety of this sweet treat. 

Another toxin of concern is an artificial sweetener known as xylitol. Xylitol is an ingredient commonly found in sugar-free candies and gum. Even when consumed in small amounts, xylitol can be extremely dangerous and can even be fatal. 

When celebrating with your pet, make sure you only feed pet-safe treats. If you have a stash of Valentine’s Day candy, ensure your pet does not have access. If you think your pet has gotten into something they shouldn’t have, it’s always best to give us a call. We can help you determine if your pet needs medical attention and get your pet the care they need.

Decorating Disasters 

Whether it’s a beautiful bouquet or romantic candlelight, it’s critical to make sure your Valentine’s Day decorations are safe for your pet. Here are a few things to consider and ways to help keep your pet safe. 

Flowers: Unfortunately, some of the flowers in your beautiful bouquet may be toxic or even fatal for your pet. Before bringing any flowers into your home, examine the bouquet closely to identify any potential dangers. Lillies are the most common toxic flower and should always be avoided. 

If you are unsure which flowers are safe, check out the ASPCA’s toxic plant library. Not only can it be helpful for your Valentine’s Day bouquets, but it is also a helpful resource to keep your pet safe throughout the year. 

Even if a flower is not a toxic risk to your pet, it is still best to keep your bouquet out of your pet’s reach. Roses or other flowers that contain thorns can cause injury if your pet decides to sneak a little nibble. 

Candles: While they may be romantic, candles can be dangerous around curious pets. Candles can easily be knocked over, and letting your pet get too close can result in accidental burns. 

To keep your pet out of harm’s way, keep candles out of your pet’s reach and never leave candles unattended. You may even want to consider using battery-operated candles instead! 

Other decorating concerns include ribbons on gifts and the string on balloons. These can be particularly enticing for cats. If consumed, these objects can cause intestinal obstructions and are also a choking hazard. Be mindful of where these decorations are placed and monitor your pet closely. 

Keeping Your Pet Safe

The best way to show your pet love is by keeping them safe. While we hope these tips will help keep your celebrations pet-friendly, we understand that accidents happen. If your pet consumes something toxic or needs medical attention, please give us a call at 651-202-3388. You can also find additional information about emergency services and after-hours care on our resources page

 

 

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