As a dedicated dog owner and an enthusiast of creating a relaxing home environment, I’ve often found myself drawn to the warm, soothing ambiance that natural soy wax candles provide. However, being a responsible pet owner means considering the safety and well-being of our furry friends. Through personal experience and research, I’ve discovered that while sustainable candles can enhance our living spaces, they may pose a few risks to our beloved pets.
The Hidden Dangers of Candles for Pets
When considering the safety of candles for pets, two primary concerns arise: the type of wax used and the presence of essential oils. These factors can significantly impact the health of our pets, leading to potential hazards that we, as pet owners, should be aware of.
Essential Oils: Do not let pets consume!
Many candles are infused with essential oils to enhance their fragrance. While these oils can be therapeutic for humans, they can be harmful to pets. Essential oils such as tea tree oil, peppermint oil, and eucalyptus oil are particularly toxic to dogs if consumed. Symptoms of essential oil poisoning in pets can include vomiting, drooling, tremors, and even respiratory distress. It’s important to note that cats are even more susceptible to essential oil toxicity due to their unique liver metabolism.
Tea Tree Oil: Even a small amount of tea tree oil can cause severe toxicity in dogs. Ingesting it can lead to symptoms such as lethargy, muscle tremors, and low body temperature.
Peppermint Oil: While the minty scent might be refreshing to us, peppermint oil can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs if ingested.
Eucalyptus Oil: This oil can cause salivation, vomiting, and even seizures in dogs if they consume it.
Inhalation Hazards: Air Quality Concerns
Beyond ingestion, the inhalation of candle fumes poses another risk. When candles burn, they release a variety of substances into the air, depending on the quality of the candle. In large quantities, these substances can cause respiratory irritation in both pets and humans.
Paraffin Wax: A Hidden Mistake
One of the most common materials used in candle-making is paraffin wax. Paraffin is a hydrocarbon, meaning it is composed solely of hydrogen and carbon atoms. It is derived from petroleum, oil, or coal shale, which makes it a relatively cheap and accessible option for candle production. However, the burning of paraffin wax releases toxic chemicals such as butane and tridecane into the air. At The Empowering Scents we decided not to use paraffin wax due to the toxicity of the fumes it emits. If you would like to read more about the safety of your dogs, then read here.
The Chemistry of Paraffin Wax:
When paraffin wax candles burn, they undergo a chemical reaction that breaks down the hydrocarbons, releasing various byproducts. Among these byproducts are volatile organic compounds that can contribute to indoor air pollution. Butane and tridecane, specifically, are known irritants that can affect both human and animal health. Inhaling these substances is akin to inhaling fumes from a fuel source, which is far from ideal for the respiratory health of our pets. Ever burnt a candle and suffered from a headache afterwards?
Natural Alternatives: The Empowering Scent's Choice
Given the potential hazards associated with traditional candles, it’s crucial to explore safer alternatives. At Empowering Scents, we are committed to providing a healthier option for both you and your pets. Our candles are made from natural soy wax, which offers several benefits over paraffin wax.
The Benefits of Soy Wax:
Natural and Renewable: Soy wax is derived from soybeans, a renewable resource. This makes it an environmentally friendly candle compared to petroleum-based paraffin wax.
Cleaner Burn: Soy wax burns cleaner than paraffin, producing less soot and fewer pollutants. This results in better indoor air quality, reducing the risk of respiratory irritation for both you and your pets.
Longer Burn Time: Organic Soy Wax candles tend to burn longer than paraffin candles, offering better value and a more sustained aromatic experience.
Biodegradable: Being a natural product, soy wax is biodegradable wax. This makes it a safer option for the environment and easier to clean up if spilled.
Practical Tips for Candle Safety Around Pets
While choosing the right type of candle is a significant step toward ensuring pet safety, there are additional precautions you can take to minimize risks:
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Placement: Keep candles out of reach of pets. High shelves or enclosed lanterns can prevent curious pets from knocking them over or eating them.
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Supervision: Never leave a burning candle unattended. Pets can easily become attracted to the flickering flame, leading to accidents.
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Alternative Scents: Consider using pet-safe alternatives for example natural essential oils that are safe for pets.
Conclusion: Pet Safety
As a devoted dog owner myself, the safety and well-being of my dog is always at the forefront of my mind. While candles can add a beautiful and relaxing element to our homes, it’s essential to be aware of the potential risks they pose to our furry companions. By choosing safer alternatives like soy wax candles and taking simple precautions, we can enjoy the ambiance and fragrance of candles without compromising the health of our pets. If you would like to research further onto the health issues caused by paraffin wax to humans, than read this blog.
At Empowering Scents, our commitment to using natural soy wax ensures that you can create a warm and inviting atmosphere in your home while ensuring the safety of your pets. Enjoy your candles responsibly and keep your furry friends out of harm’s way.