Feeling the Love

Taking Care of Our Favorite Valentines

We have a soft spot in our hearts for Valentine’s Day, but what’s not to love? There’s chocolates, flowers, candy, and delicious dinners to eat. But what does that have to do with dogs? It turns out that there are several things for dog lovers to be conscious of when it comes to their four-legged friends and this romantic day. Whether your dog is your special someone or you’re celebrating the day with a two-legged companion, these tips will ensure that cupid’s arrow hits its mark every time.

When it comes to Valentine’s Day, chocolate is a favorite gift to show your love. But when chocolate or candy come into your home, it’s best to keep those sweets out of reach! Not only is chocolate toxic to dogs, but other sweet treats can cause digestive upset, increase their heart rates, and even cause cardiac arrest. Keeping your dog safe just might be the best excuse you have to polish off that heart-shaped box of chocolates yourself!

Another iconic symbol of Valentine’s Day are flowers, but it’s best to save those roses for your own enjoyment. Dogs may love flowers as much as their owners do, but some plants are toxic to your pets. Some common flowers that can make your pets sick include: tulips, daffodils, lilies, and hyacinths. If you think your dog has been exposed to a toxic plant, review the ASPCA Animal Poison Control’s database of common pet poisons or call them for a consultation at 1-888-426-4435.

Last of all, when it comes to Valentine’s Day, unless you have talked to your special someone in advance, reconsider giving an animal as a gift. Every year, many pets that are given as gifts end up surrendered to shelters around the country. No matter how sweet and romantic the gesture may seem, be sure to do plenty of research and involve the recipient in the decision.