Valentine's Day is near and love is in the air -- but so is potential danger for pets.

Many pet owners don't realize the perils of traditional Valentine's Day gifts for their canine and feline best friends so the pet care experts at Best Friends Pet Care advise avoiding the following holiday hazards:

• Chocolate - As delicious as it is to humans, chocolate can be toxic to dogs because it contains theobromine and caffeine, stimulants which can be hazardous — and even fatal — to pets. According to the ASPCA, chocolate toxicity is one of the most common poisonings seen by vets.
• Jewelry - Sparkling gems are appealing to our four legged friends, too. Fido or Kitty's instincts may tempt them to taste the jewelry, causing stomach ailments and possible breathing difficulties. Don your new jewelry immediately, or place it safely away.
• Flowers - Some flowers and plants are dangerous if ingested by pets, including buttercups, calla lilies and tulips. The packaged plant food that accompanies some floral arrangements can lead to stomach problems as well.
• Other dangers - A romantic candlelit dinner can turn into a fiery disaster by a pounce on the table from a curious cat. And scented cards and love letters spell danger if ingested.

Puppy love for puppy
Pet experts recommend keeping pets content and out of trouble by presenting them with presents of their own.

More than three quarters of all pet owners in America give gifts to their pets on special occasions -- and Valentine's Day should be no exception. From heart-shaped plush toys, to Valentine's Day bones and pink and white "puppy Popsicles", there are a variety of toys and treats from which to choose.

Your local Best Friends Pet Care center has plenty of Valentine's Day treats for your furry valentine.

Or a day at the spa
Treating your pet to a comforting day at the salon is another gift idea. "February is actually a great time for a grooming make-over," said Val Penstone, national director of grooming for Best Friends. During the winter months, grooming is often neglected and, with the windows closed and the heaters on, low humidity can make your pet's skin and coat dry and scaly. A thorough grooming will leave your pet clean and comfortable from head to toe - and much nicer to be near.

Top off your pet's new "do" with a pretty sweetheart or festive red denim-and-daisy collar - both with matching leads - and you'll both be ready for spring.