Increasingly our customers are asking us whether scented candles are safe for their dogs, or whether candles are toxic for dogs, so we thought we'd write a post about it to give you the answer. When using a scented candle in your home when you have a dog (or any pet for that matter), there are four key things to be aware of.
- Fragrance sensitivity. Just like humans, dogs can have sensitivities or allergies to different ingredients. Your dog could have a reaction to a particular fragrance so you should keep an eye on them when a new candle is lit.
- Ventilation is key. Never burn a candle in a room with all the windows and the doors are shut. Leave the door ajar so that air can circulate, and avoid burning candles in small rooms where the fragrance will be too concentrated.
- Keep candles out of reach. To prevent accidental burns or ingestion of candle wax, place candles in areas that are inaccessible to your dog. Consider using elevated holders or placing candles on high shelves where your curious canine cannot reach.
- Be wary of 'dog safe' candles. Most candles on the market that meet UK candle safety regulations will be generally 'dog safe', just as they are safe for humans. But that doesn't mean that your dog won't have a reaction to them, just as you might. Where a candle is marketed as 'dog safe' that is usually just marketing, rather than any difference in the actual candle. You still need to use the candles properly and follow the tips above!
Overall, there's no reason why you can't light a cost candle and enjoy a beautifully fragrance home with your pup.