On Valentine's Day, show your love for your pets by keeping them safe.
Metro Creative Connection
Valentine's Day is celebrated on February 14th, and while it is a day to honor love, it is also a day to exchange cards, flowers, chocolates, and other treats. Valentine's Day, unfortunately, can be a time of increased pet medical concerns and visits to veterinary emergency facilities for those of us in the pet health sector.
To our beloved dogs and cats, objects of love and affection might become actual dangers. The following are some objects that could end up being dangerous to your pet.
BOUQUETS AND FLOWERS
Many floral arrangements may contain blooms that are poisonous or even lethal, particularly if the recipient has a cat. Lilies, one of the most popular flowers sent at this time of year and in the spring, are highly harmful to cats. All parts of the flower, including the petals, stamen, and pollen, can cause serious renal damage and even death in cats.
If you have a cat, inspect each bouquet carefully and discard any lilies. Remove them from your home totally, even if they're in the garbage, so your cat can't get to them.
Plants with thorny stems, such as roses, can also be bitten, stepped on, or ingested by some pets. These punctures can be painful and infectious. When you have curious and destructive pets, consider eliminating thorns if at all possible. Oleander, peace lily, sago palm, ZZ plants, snake plants, areca plants, and weeping figs are among the plants that can be poisonous to pets.
CANDIES, INCLUDING CHOCOLATES
Most people are aware that chocolate is poisonous to dogs, but many are unaware of how frequently dogs wind up in the hospital as a result of chocolate consumption. Chocolate chips, truffles, cookies, and boxed chocolate are frequently left in places where dogs can easily access them. The problem with chocolate in dogs is that it contains methylxanthine, a stimulant similar to caffeine that can cause significant increases in heart rate and arrhythmias, extreme hyperactivity, seizures, and, on rare occasions, death.
Although the rule of thumb is that the darker the chocolate, the more toxic it is — especially in small dogs — chocolate ingestion (lighter chocolate) has a high butterfat content and can cause significant gastroenteritis (vomiting and/or diarrhea) as well as a dangerous condition called pancreatitis. This is especially concerning in dogs whose stomachs are already sensitive.
Most confectionery and sugarless gum, as well as many baked items, include xylitol, an artificial sweetener that is hazardous to pets. Xylitol can produce a dip in blood sugar, which can cause tremors and seizures. Long-term and more serious liver damage issues are also possible.
COCKTAILS
Although most pets are not attracted to alcoholic beverages, some will drink them if they are provided or if they are spilt. Because most dogs are much smaller than people, even a small amount can be harmful. Vomiting, tremors, slow breathing, drowsiness, and, in severe cases, coma are all symptoms of alcohol intoxication. If a substantial amount is consumed, seek immediate medical attention from a veterinarian or an emergency service.
CANDLES
Candles make for a beautiful evening, but if left unattended, puppies and kittens can burn their noses or, even worse, paw at and knock them over, causing a dangerous fire. When you leave a room, always turn out any candles or fires. Consider a flameless option if you still want the atmosphere of candles.
RIBBON, BOWS, AND STRINGS WRAPPING
Cats (and some dogs) enjoy chewing on linear things such as ribbons and strings, which can be harmful if consumed, creating bowel blockages that commonly necessitate surgical removal. The threads or ribbons are wrapped under the tongue in some cases. Greeting cards are usually nontoxic if you're trying to be extra cautious with a pet in your home this Valentine's Day.
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