Valentine’s Day Pet Safety: What Every Pet Owner Should Know
February 10, 2026 · Pet Safety
Valentine’s Day is full of thoughtful gestures: bouquets, sweets, cozy dinners, and decorations, but many of these well-intended traditions can quickly turn into emergencies for pets. At Animal ER of University Park, our 24/7 emergency veterinary hospital in Bradenton often treats avoidable pet emergencies around holidays like Valentine’s Day.
A little awareness goes a long way. Here’s how to protect your pets while enjoying the holiday.
Sweet Treats Can Turn Sour
Chocolate may be a Valentine’s Day staple, but it’s one of the most common reasons pets end up in the emergency room this time of year.
Chocolate contains theobromine, a compound that can cause serious health issues in dogs, including:
Vomiting and diarrhea
Increased heart rate
Restlessness or tremors
Seizures in severe cases
Even small amounts, especially dark or baking chocolate, can be dangerous.
Prevention tip: Keep candy boxes, gift baskets, and dessert trays out of reach, even after guests leave.
Romantic Bouquets Aren’t Always Pet-Friendly
Fresh flowers can brighten your home, but not all plants are safe for pets.
Lilies are extremely dangerous for cats and can cause kidney failure
Rose thorns can injure mouths or paws
Decorative greenery and filler plants may upset the stomach if eaten
Prevention tip: Place arrangements in secure locations and discard wilted flowers promptly.
Decorations, Wrappings & Ribbons
Pets are naturally curious, and shiny wrapping paper, bows, and ribbons can look like toys.
Risks include:
Choking
Intestinal blockages
Emergency surgery
Prevention tip: Clean up wrapping materials right away and supervise pets during gift exchanges.
Candles & Cozy Dinners
Valentine’s Day often includes candles and special meals, both of which come with risks for pets.
Open flames can cause burns or fires
Fatty foods can trigger pancreatitis
Garlic, onions, and alcohol are toxic
Prevention tip: Use flameless candles when possible and keep pets out of the kitchen during meal prep.
Medications Left Behind
Guests, overnight stays, and busy schedules make it easy for pills to be left on counters or bedside tables.
Many common human medications are toxic to pets, even in small doses.
Prevention tip: Double-check surfaces and store medications securely after guests leave.
When to Visit the Emergency Vet
If your pet gets into something they shouldn’t, or shows signs such as vomiting, drooling, tremors, weakness, or unusual behavior, don’t wait.
Animal ER of University Park is open 24/7, including holidays, to provide urgent veterinary care when your pet needs it most.
A Safe Valentine’s Day Starts at Home
Valentine’s Day should be about love, not last-minute emergency visits. By taking a few simple precautions, you can protect your pets and enjoy a stress-free holiday.
If an emergency does happen, the experienced and compassionate team at Animal ER of University Parkis always here for you and your pets, day or night.
Wishing you a happy, safe Valentine’s Day from all of us at Animal ER of University Park.
