Valentine’s Day Pet Style

As florists across the nation get ready for one of the biggest days of the year, many Australians will be waiting in anticipation for flowers or chocolates from their significant other on February 14th.

“With Valentine’s Day upon us, many Aussie’s will be waiting something special from that certain person in their lives,” Nadia Crighton from Pet Insurance Australia says. “However, it’s a good idea to also remember that many of our Valentines ‘gifts’ can pose problems in our pets.”

Pet Insurance Australia estimate over 10,000 Australian pets were treated for toxicity and poisoning during the month of February in 2017. Chocolate poisoning always tops this list when it comes to toxicity claims across Australia.

“Dogs are natural scavengers and simply love to indulge in anything tasty,” Crighton says. “So, around this time of year it’s a good idea to remember to put your chocolates out of sight to prevent your dog, or cat, from getting sick.”

PIA also advises; keeping lilies out of reach of curious young cats.

“Lilies are a popular choice of flowers other than roses and It’s a good idea to remember that they are very toxic to cats.”

But why is Chocolate so very bad for our pets?

“It is made from roasting the seeds of the Theobroma Cacao, which contain two toxic properties for animals; caffeine and theobromine,” Crighton continues. “Ingesting these properties can be fatal for a companion animal.”

TOP FIVE TOXIC CLAIMS

• Chocolate
• Toxin Exposure
• Rodenticide
• Grapes/Raisins
• Ibuprofen

Symptom of chocolate poising include:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Rapid breathing
• Seizures
• Increased heart rate
• Restlessness
• tremors

But it’s not all doom and gloom!

“Many people will also be happily spoiling their beloved pet on this day,” Crighton says. “There certainly is a new trend of gifting pets on this special occasion.”

In the USA, the National Retail Federation has noted that spending is expected to jump by 8% this Valentine’s day compared to last year.

“You can expect that this growing trend in America will trickle to Australia and beyond,” Crighton says. “Which is only a great thing for our beloved pets.”

Many pet shops will also jump on board with this idea and you may see your local selling some great gifts for your pooch or cat to celebrate in the love.

Valentine Ideas for Pets

• New collar (think bowties)
• Special pet treats (hampers galore)
• New toys (soft, hard and themed)
• A special day out (the beach or the park)
• Pet friendly picnic

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