Valentine’s Day is right around the corner! This romantic holiday is a great time to enjoy a special evening with your partner. However, you will want to take some precautions to keep your beloved pet safe. This can be a dangerous time for our four-legged friends! Read on as a local Bowmanville, ON vet lists some holiday hazards for pet parents to be aware of.

Chocolate

Chocolate is, for many of us, one of life’s smaller special treasures. However, it isn’t safe for dogs or cats. Some types of chocolate are more hazardous than others are, with dark baker’s chocolate being the worst. However, they all contain caffeine and a substance called theobromine, which can be fatal to dogs in large amounts.

Candy

Smaller candies are also unsafe for our fuzzy buddies. Not only do they—and their wrappers—pose a choking risk, but many of them contain xylitol, which is toxic to pets. Keep that candy dish well out of paws’ reach!

Candles

Candlelight dinners are a popular way to celebrate Valentine’s Day. However, if your furry pal will also be in attendance, you’ll need to be extra careful. You don’t want Fido knocking a candle over, or Fluffy sticking her tail in one! Keep candles in high, secure spots that your pet can’t get to, and use thick candleholders. Better safe than sorry!

Alcohol

Wine and champagne are going to be on the menu for many couples on Valentine’s Day. Don’t let your pet partake! Alcohol is toxic to both dogs and cats.

Stuffed Animals

Stuffed animals don’t really pose too much of a threat to Fluffy: she’s more likely to fall asleep on a teddy bear than try to eat one. Fido, on the other hand, absolutely loves to demolish them. The stuffing is one concern, as it can cause serious intestinal blockages and injuries if ingested. Small parts, like those plastic eyes and buttons, also pose choking hazards, as do ribbons.

Flowers

This is a busy time of year for florists! However, many popular plants, such as lilies, are toxic to pets. Roses are also dangerous, though in this case it’s because of the thorns, not the petals. Keep bouquets in spots your four-legged pal can’t reach. Is your furry companion ready for an exam? Contact us, your local Bowmanville, ON vet clinic, anytime. We are here to help!