Plus, many people also ignore the inflammability of pine straw mulches. In the short term, chewing mulch has no negative effects (except for toxic varieties). About: Made of shredded or chunked pine tree bark, pine bark mulch bears a natural eye-catching red-brown shade that works well with most garden palettes and wont harm your pooch. Despite being low in cellulose (cellulose is a basic nutritional need for termites) these mulches act like a bridge between the yard and your home. Licorice mulch is a proven pest repelling mulch because of its anti-artillery fungus property. This site is user-supported. We may earn a commission, at no cost to you, if you purchase through links. Cypress trees are being cut down in FL wetlands faster than the can replenish. Mulch serves many purposes in the home landscape. It gives the same traditional look as mixed hardwood and cypress mulches. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. [ 9] What Is Eucalyptus Mulch Good For? I guess youve heard that chocolate is very dangerous for dogs. Always be sure to keep any of these products out of reach of your dog, and if you do decide to use them, make sure [your dogs] not close enough [to a diffuser] to be affected, Dr. Crow said. Savvy homeowners always use termite granules around their homes foundation. You should be able to cover 500 square feet with this 2.5 cubic feet cube. The Amish make this red cedar wood product: so produced in the United States, and it is 100% natural and environmentally friendly. Your dog can chew on it and even swallow some of the fibers without any risks. Two common softwood mulches that many homeowners use are firewood mulch and all types of pine wood mulch, especially loblolly and slash pine mulch. Melaleuca, which is pronounced as MEL-ah-LUKE-ah, became a common landscape tree and was used as a soil stabilizer on levees and spoil . You should have enough mulch to cover up to 20 square feet. Food grade diatomaceous earth works best when getting rid of termites and other bugs from the soil and mulch. Not only good for dogs, but for any pet. Dogs are natural chewers. If you do use essential oils that are safe for dogs, store them far out of your dogs reach so he cant accidentally snack on them, and dont keep the diffuser close to where your pup likes to hang out. Remember subterranean termites gain access to your home from underground. Not only that, but the mulch is then (triple shielded to remove excess dust that can irritate your pet and their skin.) Eucalyptus isnt as long-lasting as other mulch options, nor is it as readily available stateside, making it pricier. Originally Published: June 18, 2020 Q: Is melaleuca mulch safe to use? a little more. Dogs have a much stronger sense of smell than humans, so a scent that smells fine to you might be way too intense for your pup and might actually stress him out or even cause him to have difficulty breathing. Not all materials are ideal for pets, and you should be sure to buy a completely pet-safe, non-toxic species. For this reason, do not buy such mulch for your dog who likes to chew. If this happens, remove the mulch and replace it with another product. Is this the same melaleuca used to make herbal shampoo and tea tree oil? Termite granules remain active for at least 6-9 months, thereby making it impossible for the termites to make any nests in and around your homes foundation and yard. It can be a nice addition to your puppys bed that he will love to lie in. Pine, cedar, and cypress are probably the three of the most popular mulch options and they should all be dog-friendly. Dog-safe mulch comes in various looks and textures, making finding the right fit for your garden needs and aesthetic easier than youd think. The mulch is very comfortable and dogs love it. Break the jargon and help you make the right decisions for your furry four-legged friends. Grass typically doesnt represent much of a safety concern for our pooches, but some varieties will stand up much better to the wear and tear dogs can inflict. My goal is to help you make the best decisions.As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.As a Chewy affiliate, I earn commissions for qualifying purchases. Its recommended to avoid cocoa mulch. If not, try walking, running, etc. They are all made of top quality active ingredients. It is also a very useful type of bedding for dogs and other pets. The only mulch that is consistently listed as toxic is cocoa-shell mulch. Pet owners should always use a product that is labeled as pet-safe mulch. straw is not as durable as other options. It makes a good mulch because it does not float, it's long lasting, and it is not attractive to termites. This might not be your best choice if you live in a high-precipitation area but otherwise, this is one of the best dog safe mulches. 13 Ways to Stop Dogs From Peeing on Your Lawn, One of the cheapest wood mulches available, More eco-friendly than other wood mulches, More acidic than other mulch options, potentially affecting your plants, Stays in place better than other wood mulches during rain, Has a nice natural color that blends into most gardens with ease, Doesnt allow much water to absorb into the soil beneath, Not the most eco-friendly wood mulch choice, Has natural, dog-safe insect-repelling properties, Easier to spread and shape around garden beds than heavier wood mulches, Comes in a soft red-brown shade with no need for artificial dyes, One of the most sustainable mulch options (very small carbon footprint), Doesnt offer natural insect-repelling properties, Contains a natural, lasting soft brown hue without harmful dyes, Contains fewer natural nutrients than other mulch varieties, Wont attract bugs or termites like wood mulch varieties, More eco-friendly and long-lasting compared to traditional mulch, Some dogs like eating rocks, which can be dangerous, Can lead to soil drying, inhibiting plant growth, Stays in place better than other wood mulches, Longer lasting than traditional wood chip mulch, Much more expensive than most mulch options, Large chunked nature is tempting for chewers, risking mouth injury. As inorganic . This site is supported by our readers. Therefore, you need to buy the best products, and mulch is no exception. This toxin is dangerous to dogs and your furry companion will probably want to munch on the sweet-smelling cocoa bean mulch. Fluent Woof is reader-supported. I list the safe varieties below. Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. About: Made up of chunked cedar tree bark, cedar mulch typically isnt treated with harsh chemicals, making it a good choice if you have a dog in your family. Investigate plants thoroughly before adding them to your garden, particularly flowers and fruit-bearing plants. On top of repelling termites and bugs, cedar mulch improves the quality of the soil. Even the best dog safe mulches can trigger allergic reactions such as wheezing or skin rashes. The last product on my list is also made of cedar. It does not contain the dust that could cause allergies. It looks excellent in potted plants and the backyard. Made from Melaleuca, commonly known as tea tree, this hardwood mulch is said to be termite resistant, yet friendly to earthworms. If you have pets and are considering using mulch in your yard, speak to a veterinarian about the risks involved with your pet and certain types of mulch. They catch fire quite fast and the fire can spread pretty quickly. And when a termite with diatomaceous earth goes back to its nest, it spread to other termites. The Dodo spoke to Dr. Crow and Dr. Sehaj Grewal, a veterinarian and CEO of The Melrose Vet, to find out what essential oils are bad for dogs and the symptoms of essential oil poisoning in dogs. Knowing these mulches will help you avoid choosing the wrong mulch. Kelsey Leicht The chips are small and there is no added chemical to which your dog could be sensitive. Since I wrote about safe mulches earlier, I think you suspect that there are also dangerous varieties. Its the most expensive mulch on our list. They are readily available. But if you use an excessive amount of boric acid or borax in the mixture, then it can damage the soil. On top of that, licorice mulch also maintains the soils carbon-to-nitrogen ratio which is critical for plants growth. Many people use pine bark mulch as bedding for their dog. Otherwise, it is completely safe and non-toxic to dogs. Links to academia and research to support our information are always in our articles. If you want to use a dog-safe essential oil on your pup for the health benefits, make sure you double-check with your vet first and dilute it before using it. Still, you dont have to worry, these substances are non-toxic, mostly harmless to dogs and other pets as well. Amish Aromatic Red Cedar Wood Shavings contains no preservatives and no chemicals and is great for keeping bugs (such as moths and ants) away. In this guide, youll find out five best mulch to avoid termites. Signs of essential oil poisoning will vary based on a few factors, like the quantity of oil involved and whether your dog ate the oil, inhaled it or got it on his skin. How To Lay Mulch Around Your Homes Foundation To Avoid Termites? Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. If you want to grow something that is not on this list, be sure to confirm the plant is non-toxic to dogs. While essential oils can smell great and be super calming, there are some that are dangerous for dogs. Redwood mulch: Although called "redwood," it isn't actually a product from Redwood trees. The symptoms observed in a dog who has consumed mulch can vary. How to Fix Dog Urine Spots: Protect Your Lawn from Pupper Pee! Please do not buy Cypress Mulch. Because of this, mulch made from cocoa bean shells will be just as dangerous. The mulch is made from oriental red cedar blocks that have been filtered to make a good choice if your dog has allergies. In fact, many pet owners choose to use mulch as a lining in their dogs bedor kennel. Cedarcide Insect Repelling Cedar Mulch 6. Vomiting (often repetitive, sometimes unproductive). A: Melaleuca, Melaleuca quinquenervia, also known as punk tree, paperbark tree, or cajeput, is an invasive, exotic nuisance plant in South Florida. Keep reading more about mulch and pet safety so you can avoid any problems later down the road. However, keep in mind that dogs can choke on mulch and must still be supervised. The company is a leader in producing green products. But remember that termites cant survive on mulch for long. The best mulch is 100% Natural Cedar Chips manufactured by Wood Smith USA. Your first choice should be Melaleuca mulch. Is Melaleuca mulch safe? A 6.6-pound pack is sufficient for a long time under normal use. Water retention properties are not ideal for climates with high-precipitation. It's used in hand sanitizers, insect repellents, natural deodorants, and antiseptic products. Mulch is an important element of landscape design, and its function is to help plants grow, even in difficult soils, to retain moisture. The size of the chips is not as small as the other products. Cedar mulch is a popular option among pet owners. 1. Sign up for our newsletter. So, it doesnt have as much life as the other hardwood mulches in the list have. Depending on how much was consumed or inhaled, essential oils can lead to gastrointestinal upset or liver issues, as the chemicals in the essential oil are metabolized [in the liver], Dr. Crow said. It would be difficult to choose from the products listed, as all of them were sympathetic to me. Asked by: Beryl Ankunding Score: 4.2/5 (70 votes) Any wood-based mulch is safe for your dog. The cedar mulch otherwise has a particularly pleasant scent. Sometimes dogs chew mulch because they lack certain nutrients. During production, great care was taken to ensure that there were no harmful substances in the product. When placed on the skin, essential oils can severely irritate the area and cause burning and itchiness.. Nematodes are tiny roundworms that enter the termites bodies and kill them. Due to its caffeine and theobromine content, it causes very dangerous symptoms such as a fast heartbeat, seizures, or even death. A 6.6-pound pack is sufficient for a long time under normal use. In your yard its the firewood pile and tree stumps. Image Credit: Jon Rehg, Shutterstock. It is safe to use cedar mulch in your dogs run: but only if your dog does not have it. Using a diffuser for essential oils isnt safe, either. Because it is comfortable, it holds moisture and heat perfectly. Cocoa bean mulch is made from cocoa shells and is a top-rated garden product. Your dog may suffer a digestive obstruction as well if he eats mulch. Melaleuca mulch comes from the melaleuca tree. Small dogs Cats Rabbits Undiluted use Overuse Preexisting conditions Ingested (contains cyclic terpenes) Symptoms of Melaleuca oil toxicity include: Muscle Tremors Weakness Lack of coordination Depression or behavioral disorders Symptoms may be apparent immediately, but more likely two to eight hours after use. It comes loose in the box open cautiously! document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); SmartDogOwners is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Yes it can be. One of these mulches looks so gorgeous that itll give your yard or garden a unique pretty look. Always monitor your pooch around the garden. Before we get into killing termites in mulch, lets have a look at the signs of termites in the mulch. You can make your dogs house really comfortable with this mulch. Bugs love mulches and so do the termites. Cedar wood mulch, cypress heartwood mulch, and melaleuca mulch are hardwood mulches, and they last longer than any other mulches. I can't find anything in the literature that suggest tea tree (melaleuca) mulch is poisonous to dogs and cats. The type that chews the mulch when alone and/or bored; if so, avoid using mulch in the run. You can use it with dogs, cats, but any pet. The sweet smell of cocoa mulch is attractive to dogs as well, which may encourage them to eat it. Termites do avoid pine straw mulch. No spam, just the good stuff. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Termites are dependent on the moisture and cellulose in the wood that is their life source. Also, all types of bugs like ants, centipedes, roaches, and crickets that can live in the mulch avoid these mulches. Mulch made from cocoa shells is known as cocoa bean mulch, and it is particularly toxic to dogs. Dogs may eat mulch because of its smell since it often contains composted materials that can be a sensory smorgasbord to canines. In this review, we will explore why dogs eat mulch, the benefits of mulch and the types of safe mulch for dogs, and the types that are dangerous or toxic. All the the four mulches also deter termites to build nests underneath them. The Best Mulches for Dogs (Quick Summary), The Best Mulch for Dogs (Top 10 Brand Reviewed) of 2023, 3. The mulches in the list lack both moisture and cellulose, and given the natural chemicals they have, these mulches repel termites. Mulch is gentle on the paws, it protects the soil underneath, it is surprisingly comfortable to lay and does not require much maintenance, but knowing what mulch to get is another question as not all mulch is suitable for dogs. It operates nicely to lower down the bugs. Nevertheless, the goal should be to keep your dog from chewing them many times. It does not have a thick texture. Because of this, it is not necessarily the best choice for small dogs. Cocoa bean mulch is made from cocoa shells and it is a very popular gardening product. Redwood mulch decay in 1-3 years. Signs of a stomach obstruction in dogs include: As with poisoning, digestive obstruction in dogs isnt something to treat at home or wait out. You should know that if you buy anything by clicking on these links, I may get commissions. Since tea tree mulch prevents sun and wind from drying out your soil, your plants are less stressed, even if they aren't getting maximum irrigation. Its function is to help plants grow, even in difficult soils, retain moisture, and keep weeds away. You can use it both indoors and outdoors. While others types of mulch may not necessarily be toxic, they can also be dangerous. The chips are small, fine, and soft. In the winter months, you should definitely get some mulch for your puppy. Bid Your Dog Insteadfrom that, put on something else to chew (like a bully or stuffed animal to chew) and make sure he gets plenty of physical and mental exercise throughout the day. After all, it has warm, comfortable, and other positive qualities and can be a useful accessory in your home and garden. Dogs can sometimes be quite smelly. University of Missouri did a study that proved that cedar mulch have no negative effects on plants. Like other cedar mulch, it is natural, degradable, and smells good. Many people disagree that pine straw mulch attracts termites. Tea tree oil in high concentration can be dangerous; this may be how the tree mulch became associated with toxicity. A: Yes, commercial, bagged melaleuca mulch has been composted thoroughly to kill viable seeds. Where can I get it? Tea tree oil, aka melaleuca oil, is an essential oil made from the leaves of the Australian tea tree.It has antibacterial and antifungal properties and antiparasitic effects.It includes the active ingredient terpinen-4-ol and has been used medicinally for decades. Her favorite type of dog is a happy one. And you can deter your dog from chewing on mulch by spraying it with apple cider vinegar or garlic water. Cedar chips are warm and comfortable for dogs and easy for the owner to handle. The chips are a bit on the larger size, so they may not be suitable for tiny puppies, but for adult dogs who like to be outside, this should not fit. This is probably because they like the taste of wood and not rubber. Kaytee Red Cedar Mulch for Dogs 3. You might also want to avoid mulch with larger chunks if you have a puppy who chews on everything or a dog who is prone to chewing on things when bored. Gardening with your doggo is a great way to bond and soak in fresh air and sunshine, but the wrong products can leave your floof in a load of trouble. Does anyone know if it is toxic to dogs, if they happen to chew on it. This product is also a good choice for a playground! This is another rubber mulch on my list with lots of positive features. This can cause serious dental and digestive problems. Why invest in artificial materials when you can supply your furry friend with real quality wood chips? It contains no toxic chemicals, is GMO-free, and smells extremely good. My one dog tends to chew a bit on large pine bark chunks. Scatter termite granules in the ditch and water it. If your dog eats cocoa mulch you must seek veterinary attention as soon as possible. This way, your puppys bed stays fresh. It is no accident as it is completely safe and does not cause any allergies or irritation. Best of all, pine bark mulch is readily available around the U.S., and pine trees are fast-growing and quick to replenish, making pine bark one of the most affordable and sustainable mulches. Some dogs cant help but eat things they shouldnt, leading to a digestive obstruction. Cedar mulch lasts for 5-7 years. But the question remains, is mulch safe for dogs, can dogs eat mulch, and if so, what kind of mulch safe for dogs? It adds an attractive touch to flower beds, provides protection for plants, and helps keep the soil moist. But thankfully, laying mulch around your homes foundation in your yard or garden is a cakewalk. Store gardening products and tools out of your dogs reach. Any of the dog-safe mulches discussed earlier will make better, safer alternatives. But there are mulches that termites avoid. Mulch is a must-have in many peoples gardens, but it can be dangerous if you have a dog, as not every mulch is mutt-friendly. Itd be best to keep the composition the same one teaspoon for every cup of hot water. Hi, Im Jacob. It's made from recycled wood that has been dyed with coloring that's safe for pets and the environment. And that source is your homes furniture, books, and clothes. Amish Aromatic Red Cedar Wood Shavings, 4. The natural chemicals in cedarwood act as an insect repellent and can help reduce the number of mosquitoes, fleas, ticks, and other pests. The most important thing to do to keep your pup safe is avoid bringing any poisonous essential oils into your house. Rubber mulch is often treated with chemicals, so we wouldnt recommend it for use around dogs. They can damage the respiratory tract, affect the nervous system and can lead to liver damage. If pine straw mulch and pine bark mulch are close to your homes foundation, then termites will use them to invade your home. Your pet can digest straw and will be less likely to chew on it doesn't have a chunky texture. However, there is still a risk of gastrointestinal obstruction if your dog chews on rubber mulch out of boredom. Most mulch could probably be digested without any problems, but young or small dogs could potentially develop an obstruction. By This mulch protects the soil and contains bonding agents to create a solid cover. It has a long-lasting scent and very good odor control. Straw is somewhat of an unusual option for mulch, but this is something you should consider if you have a dog who tends to chew on other types of mulch. As expected, it has a pleasant pine scent and can be useful in repelling certain insects such as mosquitoes. And you should avoid having your doggy chew on the rocks. For The Home Softwood mulches are high in cellulose that termites eat to survive. Playsafer Rubber Nuggets 7. International Mulch Company Ns8rw Redwood 8. Mutasim is the founder and editor-in-chief with a team of qualified veterinarians, their goal? Mulch has several benefits, which I will detail immediately. Pine needle mulch is another dangerous option if you have a dog. K9ofMine.com does not intend to provide veterinary advice. It is also a good alternative to harvesting native cypress trees. Caution is always good, and shopping for the best mulch for dogs is no exception. But I am constantly learning about training, grooming for dogs and cats. If possible, keep your dog contained in an area of the yard where you dont have any mulch, and be careful when you take your dog out to public areas that have mulch. This product is also a good option if you need a pet-friendly growth medium for potted plants. Cedar is not toxic to dogs, and the smell of cedar actually repels insects. Just like the cedar mulch, cypress heartwood mulch comes with termite repelling ant-fungal property. Experience has shown that rubber mulch is less commonly chewed by dogs. We take great pride in presenting the most accurate and expert-vetted information. Not only should you avoid putting the diffuser near your dogs bed, but you should also only use it for short periods of time and only in areas that are well ventilated. Ive been a professional blogger for over six years, and in that time, Ive written countless blogs that have helped millions of people worldwide. They are located at Melaleuca, Inc. 4609 West 65th South Idaho Falls, ID 83402 and their phone number is (800) 282-3000. The company processes melaleuca into mulch and other products and helps replant native cypress. Because it does not absorb moisture, it is easy to get rid of urine. Because of this, it is often placed on many playgrounds for safety. They are harmful when applied topically or inhaled.. You dont know what chemicals salvaged wood was subjected to during processing, potentially putting you and your four-footer at risk. Hey, my name is Peter, and I am the owner of this site. Comparable dog-safe mulches with pleasant aromas include cedar and pine bark. Why does your dog eat mulch and what can happen? Thomas Orbert is a PhD in entomology with specialization in tiny and microscopic pests. In short, it is a very good mulch against urine and the unpleasant odors it causes. As the name implies, a digestive obstruction is a partial or total blockage in the digestive tract, usually in a dogs stomach or intestines. For a dog-safe solution, aim for pesticide-free mulches, such as cedar mulch. Of course, this product is also versatile, so you can use it outdoors and indoors for all kinds of pets. So, here are the mulches that attract termites . Where can I get it? Pine, cedar, and hemlock mulches are good alternatives to cocoa bean mulch if you have pets. Check out these mutt-friendly mulches. Mulch also adds visual appeal to your garden. So at least hes not going to chew on mulch, and there are plenty of other options these toys can offer (e.g. Various types of mulch are often dyed and chemically treated to achieve rich color, prevent weed growth, and repel insects. But before you buy melaleuca mulch, make sure that it doesnt contain any seeds and its adequately composted. Melaleuca Mulch Licorice Root Mulch Redwood Mulch All the above four mulches have anti-fungal properties that makes them termite resistant mulches Also, all types of bugs like ants, centipedes, roaches, and crickets that can live in the mulch avoid these mulches. This cedar mulch is soft, fragrant, and very versatile. Unfortunately, countless dangerous ingredients are used in landscaping, and mulch is no different. It was first brought to Florida from Australia around 1900. Ez-straw Seeding Mulch With Tack 2. However, there are several other safe options, including cedar mulch and pine straw. Make sure you choose a premium quality product that does not contain any toxins. size so you can create an excellent dog bed that will keep your dog warm outside and the value of our best price. Given the chemical composition of these mulches, they stop all types of bugs like ants, centipedes, and cockroaches from hiding underneath them. This makes it difficult to choose one, as each has a different advantage. A layer of melaleuca mulch can help save the environmentand discourage termites. Straw mulch might not create the look you want for your landscaping project. While some mulches are relatively safe for dogs, others can pose serious health concerns. It prevents dogs from getting muddy feet. BJ. This mulch protects the soil and contains binders to create a firm coverage. Eucalyptus mulch has a pleasant smell and features natural insect-repelling properties, which wins over many gardeners. Tea Tree essential oil ( Melaleuca alternifolia) has very powerful antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties, and it is quite safe to use on human skin, even undiluted. Also, mulches, being wood chips, dont provide them enough space to make long tunnels to commute. Diffusers spray particles of the essential oils into the air, and your dog can breathe in droplets, or they can land on his fur, where they can irritate his skin. I will write about these in a few words. This solution may seem strange at first. The chips are huge adequate to resist blowing in the wind. 5 Risks To Consider (2023), Can Dogs Eat Eggplant? After working in private practice in Wisconsin for two years, she joined the USDA as . You can also use boric acid instead of diatomaceous earth. Is it legal to have melaleuca growing on my property? It has thujone, a natural chemical in it that keeps termites away. Another mulch that is non-toxic and safe for dogs is pine. If your dog gets oil on his skin or fur, you should also wash it off right away, and move your dog outside for fresh air if he inhaled the oil. Of course, typical of cedar, this mulch also drives away ticks and fleas. This product has excellent drainage properties and is very durable, even for a high-traffic area like a playground. Featuring a cloyingly sweet smell and rich color, cocoa bean mulch is popular with gardeners, but this cocoa shell-derived product is toxic to dogs. Answers. Through these nests, termites build tunnels. How To Treat Termites In Mulch In Two Steps, 7 Tiny Red Bugs In Bed (Not Bed Bugs) And How To Get Rid Of Them, How To Keep Wasps From Building Nests 7 Steps You Must Do, 6 Tiny Bugs On Phone Screen That can harm Your Phone. Melaleuca is a wellness company that offers a variety of products. Frequently asked questions about the best mulch for dogs, cedar mulch keeps ticks and fleas away great. My advice is to always try to choose products that contain natural ingredients. Termites do not favor melaleuca, the mulch will not significantly alter soil pH, and it holds its shape well.