Planning a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner in for two? Keep your pet’s safety in mind so you can enjoy your evening with that special someone. Here, a Lexington veterinarian tells you what to be aware of.

Chocolate Treats

Don’t leave that box of heart-shaped chocolate goodies sitting out on the counter or kitchen table. A pet might decide to swipe it off and chow down. As most pet owners know, chocolate is very bad for pets, as it contains theobromine and caffeine, two harmful agents to animals. Store all chocolate in sealed bags or containers, inside cabinets where pets can’t reach.

Candies and Gum

Many candies and gums are sweetened with xylitol, an artificial sugar substitute. It’s fine for humans, but very toxic to pets. Even a few sticks of gum can poison a small dog or cat, so keep all candies, gum, and baked goods that have been sweetened with the stuff safely locked away.

Thorn in Your Side

The quintessential V-Day flower, the rose, may have sharp thorns that could cut your pet’s paws or even puncture the intestinal lining if accidentally swallowed. De-thorn any roses in your home, safely away from your pet, and keep bouquets and bushels where pets can’t try to nibble on them.

Candle Safety

Thinking of setting up a slew of candles around the bathtub? Make sure not to let your dog or cat in the room when there’s a bunch of lit candles. A tail or paw could swipe through a flame, causing a burn, and pets can even knock over candles accidentally. You don’t want your holiday to be ruined with a trip to the veterinary emergency room or by having to put out a house fire.

Keep Drinks to Yourself

Alcohol of any type, including liquor, wine, beer, and champagne, has potentially lethal effects on animals. If your pet ingests too much alcohol, severe symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, uncoordinated movement, seizures, and even coma and death can result. Keep the adult beverages to yourself, and rush your pet to your Lexington veterinary emergency room immediately if your pet does swallow some.