Mulch Poisoning in Dogs - Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, Recovery, Management, Cost (2024)

FAQs

What to do if my dog eats mulch? ›

If you suspect that your pet has eaten cocoa mulch, or if you have any other type of mulch in your garden and you know that your pet has been grazing on it, call your veterinarian for an appointment without delay. All risks associated with mulch toxicity can become serious. Do not wait for symptoms to appear.

Some mulches can grow a mould that, when ingested, can cause severe neurological damage, tremors and seizures. The symptoms of mulch toxicity will usually appear within 6-12 hours and can include: Abdominal pain. Diarrhea.

Typically, mild cases of poisoning have high recovery rates. In severe poisoning cases or cases where treatment was delayed the chance of recovery is extremely low. When pets do recover from severe poisoning there can also be long-term damage to their overall health.

Mulch allergies in dogs are caused by an inhalant or contact allergic reaction to specific types of mulches. Since there are varying products within mulch, some dogs may be very sensitive to certain types. Protect yourself and your pet. Compare top pet insurance plans.

Try to engage your dog in games that he/she likes (like fetch) and make sure to redirect whenever they're eating something inappropriate. Yelling "no" as they're chewing on the inappropriate object, replacing it with an appropriate one and then praising the heck of of them for redirecting is a really effective method.

It wouldn't hurt to take him in. But if he is acting fine it's not an emergency. An obstruction would be indicated by, continuous vomiting, lethargy, not eating. The runny stool may clear up with time, but make sure he is checked for parasites and properly dewormed.

Toxic liquids and gases can form in improperly prepared or stored wood mulch, such as methanol, acetic acid, ammonia, and hydrogen sulfide which is more dangerous than any pesticide.

Pine bark, cedar bark, fir bark and cypress mulch are some of the best choices for dogs. Another good option is Coco Mulch, made of coconut husks (not to be confused with the dangerous cocoa bean mulch).

Keep pets out of freshly mulched or seeded beds, or soft soil, by setting some thorny branches in the ground at regular intervals. Make a chicken-wire fence to protect entire beds. To keep it from being an eyesore, drive several tall stakes in the ground around the bed's perimeter.

Treatment of Toxic Ingestion

The vet may perform gastric lavage to flush the substance out of the stomach. Charcoal is used to neutralize the substance. In some cases, colonic enemas may be used to flush the substance from the intestines .

What is a quick remedy for a poisoned dog? ›

If your pet has ingested a poison, try to rinse or wipe out the mouth with a damp towel/flannel. Do not give your pet anything to eat or drink before speaking with the Animal Poisons Helpline or a vet.

One Type of Mulch Can Be Toxic to Dogs

Cocoa Bean Mulch is a byproduct of chocolate production and is popular for its color and sweet smell, but because it contains some of the same chemicals as chocolate it can be toxic to your dogs.

Certain types of plant pathogens can be spread in some types of organic mulch. Depending on the type of pathogen and which plant parts will be used, you can apply the material as mulch around hosts after you chip or grind and properly handle it (e.g., by adequately heating or thoroughly composting).

Some dogs may be bored or curious, while others may be attracted to the texture and flavor of mulch. Additionally, the scent of decaying organic matter may entice certain dogs. However, it's worth noting that in some cases, consuming mulch may also indicate an underlying medical condition, such as pica or anemia.

Depending on the toxicity of the mulch and the amount eaten, various problems can occur. Common symptoms include vomiting and possibly diarrhea.

Your dog may turn to eating soil to try and boost their nutritional deficiencies. If your dog has diarrhoea or an upset stomach, they may eat soil to try and soothe their digestive system. Dogs also eat grass for the same reason, and in the process, they may end up eating some soil with it.

It should pass without incident but a digestive blockage is always a risk, so consult your veterinarian or doctor if you have greater concerns.