Valentine’s Day can be fun for your pets too if all your favorite Lover’s Day goodies like flowers and chocolates are kept out of their reach. Poison control experts say that there is always a marked rise in poisoned pet cases around Valentine’s Day. So, keep your pets safe by being aware of things that can harm them. Here are a few pet safety tips to follow on Valentine’s Day.
Chocolates -Deadly Concoctions
Most pet lovers are aware of the disastrous effects that chocolates can have on their pets. Chocolates, especially baking chocolate contain up to ten times more theobromine which is toxic to animals than other type of milk chocolates. When consumed in excess it affects the neurological, cardiac and gastrointestinal functions of animals resulting in vomiting and/or diarrhea, abnormally high heart rates, hyperactivity and even seizures that can be fatal. The high fat content in chocolates can cause fatal inflammation of the pancreas.
While cats are not that fond of chocolates, dogs are downright crazy about them having absolutely no idea of how dangerous they can be to their health. But you do and so, make sure that you tuck those tasty bites safely away after you had your fill!
Bouquets – Deadly Beauties
Unfortunately, many pet owners are not aware that certain flowers like lilies can be potentially fatal to cats and dogs. While choosing a bouquet make sure that it does not have any lilies if the receiver has a pet and if you receive a bouquet spend a few seconds to remove any dangerous flowers before putting them in a vase. Also, ask your florist to remove the thorns from rose stems as pets can chew the stems or step on them with disastrous results. Some of the other dangerous flora include bulb of tulips, azalea, amaryllis, chrysanthemums and English ivy. Symptoms of ingesting dangerous flowers or plants include stomach upset, vomiting and diarrhea.
Alcohol – Just Deadly
Because animals are small even tiny amounts of alcohol can bring about a lot of damage resulting in diarrhea, tremors, lack of coordination, vomiting and it can also affect the central nervous system and cause respiratory failure or even coma if ingested in large amounts. So, while enjoying your glass of wine or champagne on Valentine’s Day make sure that you don’t spill any or if you do just mop it up immediately.
Dangerous Flames
Nothing can be more romantic than a cozy candle light dinner near a fireplace on Valentine’s Day. Indulge, but make sure that you put out the fire before leaving the room as curious cats and nosy poodles can harm themselves or even manage to set your home on fire by knocking candles that are unattended!
Clean up
With all the excitement of opening your gifts don’t forget to safely dispose the wrapping paper, bows, tapes and ribbons. Dogs love to chew anything and everything, but if some of these items gets stuck in your pet’s throat or in their digestive tract it can cause chocking or vomiting.
Being aware of pet safety and things that can harm your pet is part of being a responsible pet owner. With a little effort you can make sure that you and your pet have a smashing Valentine’s Day!
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Great info! When in doubt, HIDE that chocolate – it’s the #1 call we get at Pet Poison Helpline, a 24/7 animal poison control based out of Minneapolis. When in doubt, if you think your pet is poisoned, call your vet or a pet poison helpline. Pet Poison Helpline is more cost effective at $35/case vs ASPCA’s $60-65. You can find more info at http://www.petpoisonhelpline.com. They are 24/7 and can be reached at 800-213-6680. Great info! Thanks for spreading the word on pet safety!