Greenhill Humane Society is encouraging Eugene residents to protect pets from Valentine’s Day gifts and traditions
Did you know that chocolate and lilies are common dangers to pets on Valentine’s Day?
According to the ASPCA, those are just two of several holiday gifts that should be kept out of paws reach:
Pet-Safe Bouquets
Many pet owners are still unaware that all species of lily are potentially fatal to cats. When sending a floral arrangement, specify that it contain no lilies if the recipient has a cat—and when receiving an arrangement, sift through and remove all dangerous flora. If your pet is suffering from symptoms such as stomach upset, vomiting or diarrhea, she/he may have ingested an offending flower or plant.
Forbidden Chocolate
Seasoned pet lovers know the potentially life-threatening dangers of chocolate, including baker’s, semi sweet, milk and dark. In darker chocolates, methylxanthines—caffeine-like stimulants that affect gastrointestinal, neurologic and cardiac function—can cause vomiting/diarrhea, hyperactivity, seizures and an abnormally elevated heart rate. The high-fat content in lighter chocolates can potentially lead to a life-threatening inflammation of the pancreas in pets.
Every Rose Has Its Thorn
Don’t let pets near roses or other thorny stemmed flowers. Biting, stepping on or swallowing their sharp, woody spines can cause serious infection if a puncture occurs.
Wrap it Up
Gather up tape, ribbons, bows, wrapping paper, cellophane and balloons after presents have been opened. If swallowed, these long, stringy and “fun-to-chew” items can get lodged in your pet’s throat or digestive tract, causing him/her to choke or vomit.
