Guide to a Pet Friendly Valentine's Day

Sugar hearts, greeting cards and bouquets all signify that Valentine's Day is almost here. For the humans in your life, chocolate and flowers fill the house with abandon! However, your furry friends may not have such a great time if they happen to encounter some candy or gift-giving trash. Keep your Valentine's Day pet-friendly with a few key ideas for fun and safety around the home.

Give Non-Toxic Flowers
Be more creative and choose flowers other than roses. Along with being potentially toxic when ingested, roses pose a physical threat with their thorns. You don't want small animal paws pricked with thorns so choose alternative flower types. Jasmine, camellias and orchids are all gorgeous species with a more pet-friendly tone. Roses rise in price for Valentine's Day anyway so look for a deal using alternative selections.

Get the Pets Involved
Your pets may be very inquisitive so involve them on Valentine's Day to keep them away from other items in the home. If they feel left out, they may try to chew on important items nearby. Try a perfect tug-and-toss toy as a gift from you to a loving dog. They'll spend hours getting to know their new toy friend. Surprise your dog with treats they can eat. Dogs can't deny the intoxicating taste of peanut butter.

Hide the Drinks and Chocolate Boxes
Chocolate is toxic to dogs and alcohol isn't suited for any pet in the home. Keep both of these items up on a counter or put away in a cabinet. Cats, in particular, get into trouble because they can jump on counters to grab certain treats. Spending Valentine's night at the pet hospital isn't the definition of a good time.

Adopt a Pet as a Couple
It may seem adorable, but avoid any pet adoptions for gift-giving reasons. A pet is a huge responsibility for couples and families. Try another gift idea and talk about adopting a pet to complement your current furry friend. Adding another family member should be a group decision, not a surprise in a box.

Clean up the Mess
It's exciting to receive gifts on Valentine's Day, but don't be reckless with the waste. Gift wrap, plastic and even bows are tempting for pets to chew. Pick up any trash that falls to the ground. Even the smallest plastic piece can accidentally choke an adorable kitten or puppy. Be responsible and see your pet wagging its tail for years to come.

With all the right moves, it should only be the people with stomach aches this Valentine's Day. You don't want your dog, cat or other pet unhappy on this loving holiday. Keep their needs in mind and they'll be happy critters well past this February holiday.