"Cocoa mulch" refers to a type of mulch made from cocoa bean shells. It is used to cover the soil in gardens and flower beds.
Full definition
Certain types of mulches such
as cocoa mulch and cedar chips may also be toxic to dogs.
Many dogs think so too, and there have been several occurrences of dogs getting ill and even dying after
ingesting cocoa mulch.
In this way, the Unity Gardens and
cocoa mulch from Davis Chocolate contribute to a positive network of accountability locally.
If you suspect your dog may have
eaten cocoa mulch, the ASPCA recommends contacting your veterinarian immediately or calling the Animal Poison Control Center at 1-888-426-4435 for expert advice.
Do not
use cocoa mulch which has a chocolate odor and is therefore attractive to both cats and dogs, because it can be lethal if ingested.
Cocoa mulch and many garden chemicals are hazardous; dogs will ingest the
tasty cocoa mulch and can be intoxicated with the theobromine it contains (a form of chocolate toxicity).
Cocoa mulch — pets are attracted to the chocolatey aroma, but the ingredients
in cocoa mulch can be deadly if ingested
Dogs
consuming cocoa mulch have been reported to exhibit vomiting, tremors, diarrhea, a rapid heart rate and hyperactivity.
An item known
as cocoa mulch, made from the hulls of the cocoa bean, is used in landscaping and also contains this chemical.
Analysis: No question about it, chocolate and other products made from cacao beans — e.g.,
cocoa mulch — contain substances toxic to certain animals, including both dogs and cats.
Grapes and
cocoa mulch, for example, were only discovered very recently to have harmful effects.
Fertilizers, pesticides, and other lawn and garden products can be harmful to pets; and
cocoa mulch is attractive to some dogs, who may eat it.
These include herbicides, plants (hydrangea, tulips, azaleas, lilies), insecticides, mushrooms, fertilizers and
cocoa mulch.
Don't let your dog wander in other yards where chemicals or
cocoa mulch (toxic if ingested) might be used.
We know that accidents can and will happen, whether your cat gets a taste of your holiday chocolate or your dog is digging through your garden and ingests
some cocoa mulch.