This is a common question from our beloved customers. The short answer: - beeswax candles should be the only candles used around our fur babies.
Why beeswax candles should be used when you have pets:
Because, like us, our pets share the same living space, breathe the same air and drink the same water. When we throw a ball across the park, a dog dashes across the same herbicide-treated grass. Or maybe you have used some room sprays. As such, our fur babies carry a similar toxic chemical load in their bodies as we do, including any chemicals found in burning synthetic candles. As we’ve highlighted in previous articles, when companies put synthetic fragrances into candles, there is exposure to the skin, the upper airways, and the olfactory (smell) pathways, which go directly to the brain, the lungs and our blood system – including those of our pets. The dire health impacts both to humans and animals are well documented.
Why Happy Flame beeswax candles?
This is why we here at Happy Flame use pure, certified organic beeswax with cotton wicks for all our candle-making endeavours—with nothing added, unscented candles—just the way we like it. The good news is this means no artificial fragrances or essential oils, leaving our candles to burn cleanly and naturally and releasing no toxic by-products, often associated with paraffin wax candles, soy wax candles or coconut wax. Beeswax is the only true natural product, no toxic chemicals or toxic fumes. A true organic candle without the harmful chemicals.
Precautions when using candles around pets:
Nevertheless, even with the organic makeup of beeswax candles, certain fundamental safety precautions regarding pet safety should be taken into account:
- Smoke and Particles: Like all burning substances, beeswax candles release smoke and fine particles that may irritate the respiratory system, especially in pets with pre-existing respiratory issues such as asthma or allergies. It is advisable to burn candles in well-ventilated area and limit pets' contact with them. BUT note that our beeswax candles don't create the carcinogenic soot that types of candles do. No or less soot is best.
- Fire Hazards: Pets, especially inquisitive cats (as cat owners know :) and rambunctious puppies may accidentally knock over a burning candle, leading to potential burns or fires. Always place candles where pets cannot reach the open flame and away from the hot wax.
- Ingestion Risks: While beeswax is non-toxic, consuming large quantities of it can still cause gastrointestinal risks in pets (Yes, motivated by curiosity, hunger or an insatiable need to chew, some dogs will swallow just about anything). Keep candles away from pets and never leave them unsupervised around candles (lit or unlit).
- Allergic Reactions: While uncommon, some pets may have allergies to beeswax. Watch out for signs of allergic reactions such as itching, redness, or sneezing.
When used responsibly and with awareness of potential risks, beeswax candles can contribute to a cozy and inviting atmosphere without compromising pet safety. They are truely the best candles for all your family's health.
Despite these factors, pet owners can enjoy burning the safer option, a beeswax candle for indoor use without harming our furry companions. When used with care and a keen eye on potential risks, beeswax candles make a cosy, comforting home without jeopardising pets.
You may also like our blog article on the ten benefits of beeswax candles you can read here.
More information about beeswax and Happy Flame is here in this FAQ section.
References:
Pizzorno J. (2022). Common Chemical Pollutants Causing a Lot of Ill Health. Integrative medicine (Encinitas, Calif.), 21(5), 8–12; Pocar, P., Grieco, V., Aidos, L., & Borromeo, V. (2023). Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals and Their Effects in Pet Dogs and Cats: An Overview. Animals: an open access journal from MDPI, 13(3), 378. https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13030378