Valentine’s Day is often defined by the exchange of chocolates, flowers and heartfelt trinkets between friends and family. These romantic gestures go a long way to entice loved ones, but they also pose a considerable danger to our beloved pets.
According to the National Retail Federation, pet owners spend close to $700 million on Valentine’s Day gifts for their pets.
The following tips will help you enjoy your Valentine’s Day festivities while remaining mindful of your furry friends.
1. Hide the Chocolate
Chocolate is one of the most popular gifts exchanged on Valentine’s Day. However, high doses of this tasty treat are lethal to dogs.
Before you head off to buy your loved one that jumbo box of chocolates, consider the adverse possibilities if it falls into the wrong hands or paws.
According to the Veterinary Centers of America, or VCA, 9 ounces of milk chocolate will poison a dog. Dark chocolate is even more lethal, while white chocolate barely poses any risk.
If your pet does ingest chocolate, it is important to seek immediate veterinary care. Signs of chocolate poisoning include increased thirst, vomiting, seizures and even cardiac arrest.
2. Skip the Flowers
Chocolate isn’t the only Valentine’s Day gesture that is potentially poisonous to pets. Certain varieties of floral arrangements and decorative plants are poisonous to pets.
If you are determined to have flowers this Valentine’s Day, you still have plenty of options. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, or ASPCA, roses are a good option for pet owners because they are nontoxic to both cats and dogs.
If you become the recipient of Valentine’s Day floral arrangements, keep them out of reach and watch your pet for common signs of poisoning, such as vomiting or loss of appetite.
3. Keep the Fruit Bouquet in the Refrigerator
Did you know that grapes could be fatal to dogs?
The American Kennel Club maintains that this common household fruit can cause extensive liver failure in our four-legged friends.
Before you decide to skip the chocolate for a healthier alternative, consider whether you’ll be able to keep this treat out of reach from Fido!
>>> Oxyfresh’s Pet Deodorizer can be sprayed directly onto your dog to eliminate unwanted smells immediately.
4. Avoid Choking Hazards
Avoid leaving paper, packaging and sweet treats around the house. While some of these items can be toxic if ingested, others can become choking hazards.
Avoid accidents by keeping small items out of reach from your pets.
Memorize the steps you will need to take in case of an emergency. Check out this Dummies guide to “What to Do When Your Dog is Choking.”
5. Pamper Your Pet
Animal lovers agree that pets are valued members of the family too. If you are looking for a thoughtful gift for your dog or cat, consider sending them to the groomer.
Your dog will feel loved, pampered, and may even sport a festive red bow when they return from their treatment!
6. Spread the Love
While dogs and cats may not recognize the date, they will enjoy being the recipient of Valentine’s Day gifts too! Chew toys, beds and doggy baked goods are great options for dogs. Catnip, special treats, and mouse toys are fantastic for felines.
What’s more, pet-friendly gifts provide a valid distraction from potentially harmful gifts intended for your human family members.
7. Freshen Up
Valentine’s Day is a great opportunity to entertain your loved ones. However, pet owners may struggle to set the mood when their homes insist on smelling like their furry friends.
Try to establish a pet-designated area of the house, keep on top of loose fur, and deodorize often.
Don’t forget: not all pet products are created equal. Oxyfresh’s Pet Deodorizer utilizes the power of Oxygene® (stabilized chlorine dioxide) to fight the most stubborn smells.
According to “Food Safety Magazine,” chlorine dioxide is a powerful sanitation agent that is backed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
>>>Make Valentine’s Day even sweeter by freshening up your home with Oxyfresh’s Pet Deodorizer.
