For Pet Owners, Share Valentine's Day Love With Hugs, but Skip the Hearts and Flowers for Fido and Tabby

PRNewswire -- On Valentine's Day we profess our unconditional love to those who mean the most, lavishing them with affections and confections. For animal lovers, expressions of adoration and devotion can easily extend to our pets.

However, there are some pet hazards associated with the traditions of the holiday, explains veterinarian Dr. Kristie Souders of North Shore Animal League America, the world's largest no-kill animal rescue and adoption organization. Dr. Souders offers these tips on how to keep pets safe from potential Valentine's Day hazards.

Chocolate

The number one belly ache for pets on Valentine's Day is chocolate since it's so readily available. Depending on the amount ingested, chocolate is potentially poisonous to many animals. A good rule of thumb to remember is the less sweet the chocolate, the more toxic it could be. These particular chocolates contain theobromine, which is a substance similar to caffeine. Even in small, non-toxic doses, chocolate can still cause stomach upset, diarrhea, vomiting, hyperactivity, dehydration and seizures. It's best not to tempt fate with tempting chocolates. Leave the sweets for your human sweetie.

Candy and Gum

Many sugar-free candy, gum and baked products today contain xylitol. Xylitol is a sweetener found in plants that is used as a sugar substitute and is highly toxic to dogs, so be sure not to leave these snacks where your pet can find them. Dogs ingesting significant amounts of gum or candies solely or largely sweetened with xylitol may develop a fairly sudden drop in blood sugar, resulting in depression, vomiting, loss of coordination, seizures and even liver failure. Symptoms come on very quickly. If you suspect that your pet has ingested any amount of xylitol, call your veterinarian immediately.

Plants, Flowers and Candles

Many flower and plant varieties are poisonous or harmful to pets. Different plants and flowers have varied effects. Some of the more popular varieties that may be found around Valentine's Day are: Baby's Breath, Chrysanthemums, Daffodils, various Lilies, Ferns, Hyacinth, Hydrangea, Impatiens, Lily-of-the-Valley, Rubber plants, and Tulips. Cats, especially, find grass-like plants irresistible and have access to just about everywhere. There are many more flowers and plants that can cause upset and even death to your pet, so please be aware to keep all varieties of flora and fauna away from them. Candles are also popular on holidays. Be mindful that pets, especially cats, can be attracted to the flicker and have the potential for being burned or knocking over a candle that could cause a fire. Keep burning candles out of reach and never leave them unattended when your pet is in the area.

Pamper Your Pets This Valentine's Day

While traditional Valentine's Day goodies are not good for animals, there are plenty of pet delicacies you can use to pamper your pet so he doesn't feel left out. An extra long walk or a special brushing can be just what Cupid ordered. Exercise and grooming have infinite benefits for both of you. Treats of the non-edible kind are equally as satisfying. A new bed, toy, catnip or bone can help express that special place in the heart saved for our furry friends.

This Valentine's Day, if you are an animal lover, think about opening your heart and home to a shelter animal. You will be saving a life. If you don't have a pet, consider the Valentine's gift of sponsorship. For more information on pet safety and well-being, to learn more about North Shore Animal League America, or to send a Valentine's e-card visit www.AnimalLeague.org .

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Halloween Can Be a Scary Holiday ... for Pets

PRNewswire/ -- Ghosts and goblins walk the streets, approaching homes collecting treats. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) cautions people about keeping their pets safe and preventing dog bite injuries this Halloween. http://www.avma.org/.

While some dogs may understand that costumes and excited children are all part of the holiday fun, many dogs are fearful of common Halloween activities. This creates an increased potential for dog bites.

"Dogs believe they are the guardians of their homes, and they can feel threatened if a stranger enters their space," explains Dr. James O. Cook, president of the AVMA. "If your dog is apprehensive in these situations, you need to be sensitive to that and make preparations before Halloween to keep your dog -- and all the little neighborhood ghosts and goblins-safe."

Dr. Cook explains that costumes can be very confusing for dogs and this can cause them to react in ways that they might not otherwise. For example, some dogs will bark in alarm or show signs of aggression even when an owner or friend puts on a mask or costume.

"What's important is that you be responsive to your dog and prepare ahead of time for the holiday," he says. "If your dog gets nervous when the doorbell rings, put the dog in a place where it will feel safe. This could be inside a crate with a favorite toy or treat, or inside a familiar room with the door closed. This will make the dog feel safer and calmer."

"If your dog appears to be excessively stressed, look to your veterinarian for help," Dr. Cook adds.

Dog bite injuries and stress are not the only hazards for dogs and their owners on Halloween; candy is another common Halloween problem. Chocolate is poisonous to dogs, and so is xylitol, an artificial sweetener found in many chewing gums. Make sure you store Halloween candy where your dog cannot reach it, because most pets will eat it if given the opportunity.

"Children tend to want to share their treats with their pets, and the dog is all too happy to oblige," Dr. Cook explains. "Warn your children beforehand that table scraps are unhealthy for pets, and that candy can be deadly."

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