Cedar Mulch & Dogs

Dogs should be monitored when near mulch

Cedar mulch is one of the most common types of organic landscaping mulches in use. It is not unusual therefore, for dogs to come in contact with these mulches when strolling around backyards or public areas.

Function

Mulch consists of various materials that are commonly spread over the soil. It is often used for retaining moisture, suppressing the growth of weeds, keeping the soil cool in the summer and warm in the winter, and making attractive garden beds.

Identification

Cedar mulch is obtained from the Cedar tree

Cedar mulch is organic mulch that's slow to decompose and obtained from the bark of the cedar tree. This type of mulch has an appealing natural wood color and is available as chips, ground or shredded in pieces.

Benefits

Because cedar mulch contains natural oils in its wood, it has the added benefit of repelling insects. Lawns spread with cedar mulch may see fewer termites, roaches and even crickets.

Considerations

As with many other items that should be kept away from dogs, cedar mulch may cause trouble. In dogs predisposed to swallowing foreign objects, cedar mulch may have the potential for causing an intestinal obstruction.

Warning

According to the ASPCA, due to the presence of oils and resins, cedar mulch along with pine, spruce and fir mulch, may also cause gastrointestinal problems and even minor central nervous system depression, especially when large quantities are ingested.

Prevention/Solution

Monitoring dogs is key to keeping them safe

To be safe, it is best to monitor dogs when frequenting areas covered with mulch and possibly teach the dog to not eat mulch in the first place, using behavior modification techniques.

References

• ASPCA About Dog Eating Mulch
• About Cedar Mulch