In contrast to the true spirit of Valentines Day many people celebrate with activities that cause immense animal suffering. Purchasing a fur coat for a loved one, buying chocolate with dairy ingredients, or having a romantic dinner for two over an animal carcass are all based on the exploitation and death of animals. Thankfully, compassionate alternatives abound by the dozen so read on.

Valentines Day - Where did it all start?

No one is quite sure how St. Valentine's Day originated. Europeans believe it is the day that birds choose their mates. The ancient Romans celebrated a feast in honor of the god Lupercus, who protected their shepherds and flocks from the wolves roaming the countryside. For the more romantic among us, another story claims that a man named Valentine was jailed for attempting to convert Pagans to Christianity. While in prison, he fell in love with, and miraculously healed, the jailer's blind daughter. He signed his letters to her "From your Valentine." Written Valentines appeared around the 15th century, and by the 1800s caught on in America. In Roman mythology, Cupid is the son of Venus, goddess of love and beauty, and thus is a natural for being associated with all things romantic, particularly Valentine cards.

Foods that inspire Passion

Various foods have long been considered aphrodisiacs, but these vary depending on culture. Some plant foods commonly thought of as having special properties include, artichokes asparagus, apples, and, believe it or not, those breath-taking vegetables, onions and garlic. Egyptian priests weren't even allowed to eat them, because of the potentially alarming libidinous effects. Thoughts of Valentine's Day undoubtedly summon images of heart-shaped boxes of chocolates. Although chocolate has not been scientifically proven to have aphrodisiacal qualities, partaking of this confection can give rise to bouts of passion. Not just any chocolate will do for your loved one. When shopping for chocolate, look for products that do not contain any dairy ingredients and contain a high percentage of cocoa solids. This will ensure that you choose chocolate with the deepest, most complex flavours.

Fashion Faux Pas

Believe it or not, some people feel that buying a fur coat for a loved one on Valentines Day is a measure of romantic passion. Little do they know that fur is fashion's biggest faux pas, and it broadcasts that you are in favor of senseless cruelty to animals. If you are choosing to avoid fur, you are in great company! Charlotte Ross, Dominique Swain, Christina Applegate, Goran Visnic, Chrissie Hynde, Pink, Joaquin Phoenix, Alicia Silverstone and many more have all said no to cruel fur.