Cocoa mulch / Photo: petcarevb.com
Rumors about cocoa mulch and its toxicity to dogs have been circulating the internet since 2003. However, with several deaths linked to this product, I felt it was my responsibility to share the potential dangers.
Cocoa mulch is produced from the shells of the cocoa bean, which is used to make chocolate. This product is used in landscaping and has been advertised to last longer, get darker with age, and retain moisture better than other mulches. It also has an aromatic and appealing smell that can be irresistable to dogs.
The toxic ingredient found in cocoa mulch is Theobromine which can be fatal to a dog if consumed in large amounts. It is also present in all chocolate products, but the amount is small enough that it can be safely consumed by humans. Dogs (and cats), however, metabolize the Theobromine much slower which can lead to chocolate poisoning.
Some manufacturers of cocoa mulch have processed the Theobromine to almost undetectable levels, but many have not. Consumption of this mulch by dogs will more likely lead to vomitting and lethargy. However, when it is consumed in greater quantities, it may lead to seizures and death.
After being contacted about the potentially lethal effects of cocoa mulch on animals, many manufacturers claimed that dogs will not eat it and that the allegations are not true. One manufacturer's claim: "It is true that studies have shown that 50% of the dogs that eat Cocoa Mulch can suffer physical harm to a variety of degrees (depending on each individual dog). However, 98% of all dogs won't eat it." As it turns out, dogs DO eat this product and it IS highly toxic to them.
Cocoa mulch can be found at retailers such as Target, Home Depot, Ace, True Value, and other garden supply stores. If you have pets, do not use this product in your landscaping. Also, be sure any hired gardeners or landscapers are not using cocoa mulch. Be sure your dog is not roaming into your neighbors' gardens, as they might have used this product.
There are few to no warnings on these products, so please pass this information on to any dog owners you know to avoid a tragedy and costly veterinary bills.
Promote education and humane treatment during Be Kind to Animals Week
[you can now follow me on twitter]
Comments
Thanks for the warning. Very informative!
I never knew this....This is such a great article. Yes I will pass this on to my family and friends who have dogs. Thank you Courtney.
Got something to say?
Examiner.com is looking for writers, photographers, and videographers to join the fastest growing group of local insiders. If you are interested in growing your online rep apply to be an Examiner today!