Is Your Pet Your Valentine This Year?

Spending Valentine’s Day by oneself can be lonely, no matter your relationship status. But as someone with both cats and dogs, we can attest that it doesn’t have to be. And this Valentine’s Day, we can all find a way to celebrate.

Here are a few Dos and Don’ts on spending your Valentine’s Day with your favorite furbaby.

Don’t give your pet chocolate

It seems people have forgotten the old tale of chocolate and animals. But it’s no tall “tail”. Chocolate contains something called theobromine, as well as caffeine. Dogs and cats’ bodies aren’t like ours, and they cannot metabolize the theobromine as quickly as we can. This alkaloid can then build up and become highly toxic. And we don’t know about you, but spending Valentine’s Day at the Emergency Animal Hospital near you doesn’t sound very lovey-dovey.

Do give your pet Valentine pet friendly treats

Valentine's day dog treat for puppy dog to enjoyCheck out your local pet store, especially if you have a Mom and Pop one near you. Often, you can find cute little dog treats. And usually, around the holidays, you can find themed cookies. So, you might even be able to find adorable Valentine’s Day-themed cookies formulated for pups. But for your feline friend, giving a bit of wet food or yummy kitty treats is an excellent substitute if you can’t find a cat-friendly treat in your local store. You can form the wet food on a plate with a heart-shaped cookie cutter to make it extra special.

Don’t give your pets stuffed animals

Stuffed animals for children are adorable. The ones you can get at grocery stores and shops are cute and cuddly, but they shouldn’t be given to your pet, especially if they’re a chewer! The risk of an animal chewing on a teddy bear’s hard eye and choking or swallowing on them are high. And you always wanna keep your fur kid safe!

Do give your pet Valentine pet friendly toys

Head over to your local pet or retail store or, in advance, check out online retailers, to purchase pet-friendly and pet-appropriate toys. You’ll be surprised how many cute Valentine’s Day items they’ll have!

Don’t keep your pets around lit Candles

Candles can be dangerous to have around pets. And we aren’t only worried about the fire risk. We also have to consider that many candles are made with chemicals or products such as soy. Not only is it not safe for them to ingest, but did you know that they can cause respiratory issues. So keep the candles, essential oils, and air fresheners away from your furry friend to keep them safe and happy.

Do give your pet Valentine battery-powered candles or fairy lights

Save the scented items for spaces your animals are not allowed in, like your bathroom or bedroom. Instead, purchase battery-powered candles or fairy lights. They provide a similar ambiance and provide about the same amount of lighting. Just remember to keep those wires and batteries away from your furbabies.

No matter how you’re spending Valentine’s Day-when you have furry companions, you’ll never have to be alone in your celebration.