Valentine’s Day

It’s that time of year again when the sound of champagne corks will be popping across the city as romantic couples celebrate Valentine’s Day. It’s no surprise that many pet owners will also be celebrating the 14th of Feb alongside their precious pooch or friendly feline. Pet Insurance Australia has some great tips to keep your true-love’s pet safe, alongside some top tips on how to best spend the day alongside your pets.

Alongside all the roses and admiring gifts, Pet Insurance Australia is also reminding pet owners of the common problems around this celebration.

“This is the time of year that many veterinary clinics will see an increase in accidental poisoning from chocolate and other sources related to Valentine’s Day,” Nadia Crighton from Pet Insurance Australia says. “So, it’s important pet owners are vigilant around this celebration.”

Pet Insurance Australia advises sticking with roses for the celebration and keep clear of lilies, particularly If your dream-love, is also a cat lover.

“If you are purchasing flowers for that someone special, check if they have a cat or two,” Crighton suggests. “If they do, it’s best you stay away from lilies as they are highly toxic to cats and can lead to poisoning.”

Chocolate is also still a prominent problem particularly in dogs.

“Theobromine is the toxic component to chocolate that dogs cannot tolerate, unlike humans. Dogs cannot metabolize Theobromine, so in small doses it can cause tummy upsets, vomiting and possibly diarrhea. In large amounts it can lead to death,” Crighton warns.

As little as 100-150 milligrams per kilogram of bodyweight will cause toxicity in dogs. This means that if you have a 30kg dog as little as 3000mg of theobromine could be fatal. The rate of theobromine increases in darker chocolate and how the chocolate was made and the caffeine component. If you suspect your dog is in danger call your local veterinary clinic and seek out professional advice.

“We advise that pet owners treat chocolate like they would human pain medication,” Crighton advises. “Keep it out of reach and out of sight of your precious pooch and feisty feline.”

“Chocolate is also highly toxic to cat’s however; many friendly felines do not have a sweet tooth and will tend to naturally stay away from chocolate,” Crighton says. “Dogs however will happily scoff the whole box, wrappers and all.”

PIA also has some great tips of you are considering celebrating Valentine’s Day alongside your pet.

1. A special picnic alongside your dog. Don’t forget to pack some water and treats for your canine companion.
2. Plan a pet friendly weekend adventure – there are some great locations that welcome pets of all shapes and sizes.
3. Arrange a playdate with their best furry-friend
4. Dress up for a nice night in, don’t forget to include the cat and dog!
5. Go for a special adventure alongside the love of your life and your pet. There are some remarkable walking tracks that are also pet friendly around Australia.
6. Organise a photoshoot.
7. Spend some quality time together.
8. Sitting on a beach, admiring the view, with your slobbery ball obsessed best mate! Bliss.

We offer award-winning* pet insurance policies to protect your furry friend’s health and wellbeing. Get a quote today and give your pets the care they deserve.