Sniffing Out The Facts

Meet Captain Dapper! 
We rescued him when he was just 5 weeks old and helped nurse him back to health. Since then, he’s filled our home with love, joy, and endless happiness. His well-being is one of the driving forces behind our commitment to creating a pet-friendly wax experience. So, let's chat the truth about our furry friends' smell sensitivity. 

Did you know that our cats and dogs have a far more developed sense of smell than we do? In fact, they have far more scent receptors, making their noses powerhouses compared to ours. This heightened sense is why dogs are trained for search and rescue missions, hunting, and service work—they can literally sniff out things we can’t even imagine. Every scent they breathe in is magnified, making it far more intense for them than it is for us.

However, just because you share your home with a furry friend doesn’t mean you need to sacrifice your love for candles, wax melts, and other aromatic indulgences. There are ways to enjoy your favorite scents while keeping your pets’ safety and well-being top of mind.

So, how can you keep your home smelling wonderful without compromising your animal’s health? Let’s dive in!

Choose Small-Batch, Natural Wax Only
First things first: avoid paraffin wax at all costs! Paraffin is derived from petroleum, and even in small amounts, it’s toxic—not just to us but to our animals too. When you burn a candle or melt candle wax with any percentage of paraffin, you’re releasing harmful carcinogens into the air. These toxins can lead to headaches, respiratory issues, and even nausea for both humans and pets.

How to Shop Smarter:

• Avoid Paraffin Wax: It’s harmful to your health, your pets, and the planet.
• Watch Out for Wax Blends: Some large retailers promote "natural" wax blends but sneak in paraffin in the fine print. Look for brands that are transparent about what’s in their wax, or better yet, ask them directly.
• Shop Small & All-Natural: Smaller companies often use pure natural wax with no added chemicals or additives. This is the safest bet for both you and your pets!

Don't Forget About the Wick!
The wick is just as important as the wax when it comes to creating a safe candle experience. Synthetic wicks or those with a lead core can seriously affect your pet’s nervous system, especially if they're breathing in the smoke from a burning candle. A toxic wick paired with natural wax doesn’t solve the problem, it only contributes.

What to Look For:
Shop for candles that use natural cotton wicks with no metal or lead threading. These wicks are much safer for your pets (and for you!). Yes, it might require a little extra care in maintaining the wick, but it's a small tradeoff for health.

Go for Non-Toxic, Clean Scents:
When choosing fragrances, make sure they’re free from harmful chemicals like phthalates, formaldehyde, naphthalene, and other known carcinogens. These toxins can affect both people and animals, causing everything from respiratory issues to more severe long-term health risks.

A Word of Caution About Essential Oils:
You’ve probably heard that essential oils are natural, but natural doesn’t always mean safe—especially when it comes to pets. Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts, and many of them are toxic to animals, particularly cats. Why? Cats don’t have the liver enzymes needed to break down certain compounds found in essential oils, which can lead to poisoning.

While some essential oils are safe in moderation (and for certain animals), it’s always best to consult your veterinarian before using them in your home. Always err on the side of caution—what’s safe for you might not be safe for your pets!

The Bottom Line: Healthier Scents, Healthier Homes
To create a pet-friendly, toxin-free environment while still enjoying your favorite scents, it’s essential to look at everything that makes up your wax experience. It's not just the wax that matters, it’s the wick, the fragrance, and even the additives. Choose brands that are transparent about their ingredients and prioritize the well-being of your entire family—both human and furry.

At Crum Canoe Candle Co., we’re committed to creating safer, cleaner products that you can feel good about using around your loved ones’, pets included. Let’s make a habit of demanding more eco-friendly, pet-safe options in every home.

A Final Thought
Remember, your pets can’t always tell you when something’s bothering them. Their sensitivity to scents and chemicals means they rely on us to make conscious choices. Every animal is unique, and their reactions may vary. Take the time to observe their behavior and adjust what you do accordingly. After all, they’re counting on us to make decisions that keep them safe and comfortable. Now that you are better informed, dive in and indulge in your love for scented candles and wax melts but do it responsibly. Your pets will thank you.

 www.crumcanoecandleco.com
CRUM CANOE CANDLE CO.