Cocoa Mulch - Can It Hurt Your Dog? The Dangers of Theobromine

by Lorrie Davids⁽⁶⁶³⁾ Blue Star

In most well kept yards you will most likely find mulch as the soil topper in the flower and veggie gardens. This usually is not a problem, unless the mulch is one containing theobromine and you have a dog.

Theobromine is a compound found in many plants, including coffee, tea and cocoa beans. Cocoa bean or cocoa mulches have become popular partly because they smell good; a little sweet and not so earthy.

The problem is dogs like the smell and eat it. The amount of the compound in the mulch is small, not usually enough to do any damage unless the dog eats a large amount of it.

One ASPCA report confirms that eating large amounts of the mulch can cause intestinal problems with the possibility of tremors, tachycardia, seizures and the possibility of death.

Hershey's talks about the danger of theobromine on its Website citing the risks of chocolate ingestion by dogs. They say because dogs metabolize theobromine slowly it can have a serious effect on the dog's heart, kidney's and central nervous system. You can read their information at http://www.hersheys.com/nutrition/theobromine.asp.

While it is probably wise not to use this type mulch if you have dogs, or even if you don't (you wouldn't want to make a hungry stray sick) the best defense against any danger is to watch your pet. Always read labels and warnings on any product you use in your yard. Regularly do a walk through of the outdoor area your dog frequents to make sure your best friend will remain safe and healthy.

Article submitted Saturday, April 17, 2010 & read 602 times.

Leave your comments through My Pet Tale:

» left by Marijo Phelps from mountain meadow (1 year 294 days ago.)

My cats would probably eat it if they went outside - good head's up Lorrie!
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» left by Lorrie Davids⁽⁶⁶³⁾ (1 year 283 days ago.)

Thanks for reading and your comment, Marijo. You encourage me to write more often. With 2 dogs, one who loves all things somewhat organic smelling, I will not be purchasing this or similar products.

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