Ironically, Valentine’s Day and Pet Dental Health Month are both in February!
Ironically, Valentine’s Day and Pet Dental Health Month are both in February! We stress the importance of pet dental health during this month, and yet, we indulge in delicious treats ourselves. It’s perfectly acceptable for you to indulge in chocolates and candies on February the 14th, but we advise against you feeding them to your pets. Chocolate toxicity is something that you don’t want your canine companion or feline friend to go through. Here are some Valentine’s Day pet safety tips. Also, we have ways that you can celebrate Valentine’s Day with your pets!
The Dangers of Feeding Your Pets Chocolate on Valentine’s Day
We understand that denying your pet food is difficult. Pets make cute faces and whimper and tempt us to feed them. Naturally, pet parents want to do all they can to make their four-legged companions happy. However, watching what you feed your pets is crucial to avoid illnesses. Chocolate ingestion typically isn’t fatal, but it can cause gastrointestinal issues such as vomiting and diarrhea. Pets cannot handle the caffeine found in chocolate the way that people can. Even sugar-free candy is problematic due to the artificial sweetener xylitol because it can cause low blood sugar, seizures, and liver failure.
If you suspect that your pet got a hold of chocolate, check for extreme thirst, heavy panting, irregular heart rhythms, and of course, vomiting or diarrhea. If your pet has ingested chocolate, candy, or any other potentially poisonous substance, call ASPCA at (888) 426-4435, or you can call the Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661.
Adorable Ways to Celebrate Valentine’s Day With Pets
Now, onto a more fun topic. Many people designate their pet as their Valentine, and there are various ways that you can show your canine companion or feline friend that you love them on this special day, such as:
- Do something that your pet loves! If your dog enjoys spending time outside, take them! Go for a long walk with them, play fetch with them, and give them as much attention as you can. Cats can be independent creatures, but they will appreciate you joining in on their playtime.
- Treat Your Pet to a Pet-Friendly Treat! While you shouldn’t feed your pets candies and chocolate on V-Day, that doesn’t mean that they can’t have delicious treats at all! Look for pet-friendly recipes.
- Take Photos/Videos If your pet is comfortable wearing fun costumes, you can dress them up and document all of the V-Day fun via video or photograph.
Happy Valentine’s Day From MCAH!
Mount Carmel Animal Hospital has been serving the Northern Baltimore/Southern York community for over 30 years and is proud to be an independently operated, small animal practice committed to excellence in veterinary medicine and client service. From grooming to wellness services, along with Canine Life Skills Training Courses, and surgical procedures, we have the expertise that will best serve the needs of you and your pet. Contact us at 410-343-0200 and follow us on Facebook!