Chocolate & Pets

Chocolate & Pets, Pet lovers may want to spoil their beloved critters on Valentine’s Day, but they should think twice before letting Fido anywhere near the chocolate — among other things.

With all the chocolate and other sweet goodies that will flow around on Feb. 14 — and Feb. 15, when leftovers are taken to work — pet owners should remember that certain human treats are poisonous to animals.

“Chocolate can be dangerous for many animals, but especially dogs, because it contains theobromine, a stimulant naturally occurring in the cacao bean,” company officials wrote on the Hershey Web site. “Theobromine is chemically similar to caffeine. While safe for humans, other species, such as dogs, lack a specific enzyme and can’t metabolize theobromine. Consumption of theobromine by animals can lead to seizures, convulsions, toxicity and even death in some animals.”

Valentine’s Day-type treats that should be kept away from pets include alcohol, chocolate, coffee, fatty foods, macadamia nuts, raisins and grapes, according to the ASPCA.

Pet owners should not despair if they want to spoil their pets on Feb. 14. Options include heading over to a local pet bakery and picking up a holiday-decorated treat. Pet companies such as Petco and PetSmart are also selling holiday-themed pet items.

So keep the chocolates and other goodies stashed away in a safe, out of reach spot. And don’t fall for the puppy face!