Looking for the perfect gift for your dog? When we think of Valentine’s Day, no doubt the traditional gestures of roses, chocolates, fine wine, romantic candles and rich food come to mind. Unfortunately, these are all unhealthy and possibly harmful for your pooch. Here are some reminders that can make sure you have a safe and loving Valentine’s Day with your dog.
Chocolate
An ever-popular gift at Valentine’s Day, but chocolate can be dangerous to both dogs and cats. A 10-pound dog can develop vomiting/diarrhea, seizures and an elevated heart rate from just 2 ounces of baking chocolate or 20 ounces of milk chocolate. There are also caffeine-like substances which can cause these issues, and in severe cases, may cause death! Better to keep the chocolates out of reach.
Related: Can Puppy Love Make My Dog Sick?
Alcoholic Beverages
Drinks containing alcohol could cause vomiting/diarrhea, lack of coordination, central nervous system depression, tremors, difficulty breathing and even coma. If they take in a large enough amount, it could cause death from respiratory failure. Keep in mind that small animals metabolize things differently than we do, which makes them more vulnerable to even small amounts of alcohol. So be sure to clear any glasses of alcohol before retiring for the night.
Related: Doggie Diarrhea – What Do I Do?
Holiday Flowers
Many types of lilies are highly toxic to animals. Other potentially harmful flowers include tulips and amaryllis (especially the bulbs), daisies, chrysanthemums and baby’s breath. Some safer floral alternatives would be African violets, asters, camellia, jasmine or orchids. Also, be sure to keep your animals away from any thorns which could cause problems if swallowed or serious infections if stepped on.
Related: Plant a Dog-Friendly Garden
Burning Candles
Nothing sets the mood for a romantic dinner better than the glow of candles. But be sure to never leave burning candles unattended. Curious paws and cats that jump up on tables can be severely burned.
Decorations
Be sure to clean up after the party. Balloons, cellophane, wrapping paper, ribbons, bows, confetti can cause serious choking issues or an intestinal blockage if swallowed. It’s cute to watch them play with the party decorations, but never unattended. Watch them carefully around these items.
With these cautionary tips in mind, you are sure to have a happy and loving Valentine’s Day with your furry companion with lots of hugs, kisses and belly rubs!!
This blog is brought to you by Under the Weather®, provider of bland diet products for dogs. These bland diet products offer a quick and convenient solution when dogs experience digestive issues such as vomiting or diarrhea. Ready to go in minutes – just add boiling water to rehydrate.
Our bland diet recipes are made with 100% human-grade meats – no meat by-products, antibiotic free and no hormones added! They are gluten free and have no chemicals or dyes. Sourced and manufactured in the U.S.A.
View Our Products
Visit Our Blog Library
