MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
As Valentine’s Day approaches, Americans are showing their love not just to partners and family members, but to their pets — spending an estimated $2.8 billion nationwide on pet-related gifts, according to recent reports.
The trend reflects how deeply pets are woven into family life, especially for people whose animals are their primary companions. But they also warn that some popular Valentine’s gifts can pose serious health risks to dogs and cats.
“Pets are family for a lot of people, so it’s not surprising to see owners wanting to spoil them,” Dr. Erica Miller of Apple Lane Animal Hospital tells us. “New beds, sweaters, toys and pet-specific treats are generally fine. The problems come when people share human foods or leave dangerous items within reach.”
Chocolate remains one of the most common hazards for dogs, particularly dark chocolate. Sugar-free candy and gum are even more dangerous. Products containing xylitol, a common sugar substitute, can cause a rapid drop in blood sugar in dogs, leading to seizures, coma or death.
Flower arrangements also carry hidden risks, especially for cats. Lilies — a popular Valentine’s Day flower — are highly toxic to cats. Any part of the plant, including pollen, can cause acute kidney failure. Cats may be exposed simply by brushing against flowers and later licking pollen from their paws.
Veterinarians urge pet owners to keep chocolates, candy, flowers and gift wrappings securely stored and out of reach, including trash containers that pets can knock over. They recommend choosing treats specifically formulated for pets and checking with a veterinarian if there are questions about safety.
Dr. Miller says that they are also seeing a rise in overweight pets.
"So many are overweight and I have the talk probably at least once a day, every day, with someone with their pet being overweight, and we need to increase activity and get out their feed, less calories, less treats," says Dr. Miller.
"It's just about having an honest conversation with our clients of ways to help improve their pet's quality of life and helping reduce the risk of certain diseases going forward," Dr. Logan Druecker said. "So certainly again, now, getting some exercise with your pet. It's great bonding. It's great exercise."
As pet owners celebrate Valentine’s Day, experts say a little extra caution can help ensure the holiday ends with happy memories — and healthy pets.