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Valentine's Day is a special occasion to create memories with loved ones, including furry, scaly and feathery pets. Unfortunately, many Valentine's Day gifts can pose significant dangers to our pets. Show your precious pet you love them by giving them pet-friendly gifts and protection from harmful Valentine treats.

Five million pet owners say they will purchase Valentine's gifts for their pets this year, according to the 2005/2006 American Pet Products Manufacturing Association (APPMA) National Pet Owners Survey. PETCO offers the following tips and products to ensure that your companion animal enjoys a safe and happy Valentine's Day.

Veterinarians see an increase in visits from pets and their owners on Valentine's Day. "Chocolate poses a serious threat to both dogs and cats," says Dr. Tom Edling D.V.M., MSpVM, Director of Veterinary Medicine for PETCO. "Symptoms from chocolate ingestion include: tremors, seizures, liver damage, and even death. So, make sure to keep chocolate out of Fluffy or Fido's reach," Dr. Edling warns.

Many flowers and plants can be toxic too. When ingested by a pet, any plant or flower material may cause vomiting, diarrhea, or depression. The following plants are toxic to pets: daffodils, lilies, irises, chrysanthemums, snapdragons, tulips, and eucalyptus. Flowers and plants are not the only dangers to beloved pets: alcoholic beverages, cellophane, ribbons, balloons, and other decorations, when ingested, can cause complications or even death.

To distract your pet from cupid's dangers purchase Valentine's Day treats made just for them. At any PETCO store, you will find a doggy bar filled with cookies and treats made just for dogs and a number of toys, clothes and beds just for Valentine's Day. Excite your cat's senses with heart and cupcake- shaped Valentine's catnip. Your feline friends will also enjoy playing with Valentine's Day themed cat teaser toys. Heart-shaped Bed Buddies are also available at PETCO. These colorful and comfortable beds will pamper any pet. Don't forget to dress your pet up for the occasion in a Valentine's sweater or shirt and even a matching red, pink or rhinestone collar. An assortment of Valentine's Day gifts are also available online at www.petco.com. You can also locate a PETCO store through the website.

Consider spending some extra time with your pet on Valentine's Day. Show your love and appreciation for them by taking a special trip to PETCO to let your pet pick out his or her own Valentine treat or toy. Furry family members will also enjoy a visit to PETCO's grooming salon for some special treatment. After being groomed, pets of all proportions will need some Finishing Touch bows and ribbons found in all sizes, shapes and colors perfect for Valentine's.

If you do not have a pet consider Valentine's Day an opportunity to adopt one from your local shelter. Go to your local PETCO and visit our "Think Adoption First" kiosk or visit PETCO's online shelter partner, www.petfinder.com to find adoptable pets in your neighborhood.

PETCO is a leading specialty retailer of premium pet food, supplies and services with a commitment to quality animal care and education. PETCO's strategy is to offer its customers a complete assortment of pet-related products and services at competitive prices, with superior levels of customer service at convenient locations, by hiring pet lovers and training them to become counselors to our pet-loving customers. PETCO operates more than 790 neighborhood stores in 49 states and the District of Columbia, as well as a leading destination for on-line pet food and supplies at www.petco.com.

The PETCO Foundation, PETCO's non-profit organization, has raised more than $28 million since its inception in 1999. More than 3,300 non-profit grassroots animal welfare organizations from around the nation receive Foundation support. Through the PETCO Foundation, PETCO endeavors to be a community leader in promoting the welfare of companion animals and celebrating the human-animal bond.

SOURCE: PETCO