Your yard can be a safe haven and place for all to enjoy. However, it can also pose a hidden threat to your pets, if you don’t stay informed about what could be harmful to your pet.

Over the weekend the doting owner of two young lab mixes purchased Cocoa
Mulch from a local store to use in their garden. She loved the way it smelled and
it was advertised to keep cats away from their garden. Their dog Calypso,
decided that the mulch smelled good enough to eat and devoured a large
helping. She vomited a few times which was typical when she eats something
new but wasn't acting lethargic in any way. The next day, Mom woke up and
took Calypso out for her morning walk. Half way through the walk, she had a
seizure and died instantly.

Although the mulch had NO warnings printed on the label, upon further investigation on the company's website, this product is HIGHLY toxic to dogs. The manufacturer claims that "It is true that studies have shown that 50% of the dogs that eat Cocoa Mulch can suffer physical harm to a variety of degrees (depending on each individual dog). However, 98% of all dogs won't eat it."

To avoid more situations like this, we are compiling a list of yard hazards and safe practices for your pets. Please help us by adding your information to the list!

See also: Health Alerts and Plants Toxic to Dogs


• Cocoa Mulch. This material used in planter beds is made from cocoa bean hulls, which contain contain potentially toxic quantities of theobromine, a xanthine compound similar in effects to caffeine and theophylline. If ingested in significant quantities by your pet, the affects could be fatal.

• Vegetation Chemicals. Fertilizers, herbicides or other chemicals used to spray or fog garden areas can be toxic to humans and pets alike. It is best to keep your pet away from the treated area for at least 24 hours after application.

• Pesticides, rodent killer and other pest baits. Pesticides, rat bait, ant bait, etc. are all toxic to humans and pets. If sprays are used, keep your pet away from the treated areas for at least 24 hours. Remove all pet toys, dishes, and bedding from the area prior to treatment. For edible rodent baits, make sure these are place in areas that pets cannot access them or in secure locking boxes that allow only for rodent access.

• Snail and slug pellets. These pellets should not be scattered in the yard where pets are free roaming. If used, take proper precautions by using bait traps or special holders.

Also, be wary of these hazards out of the yard as well. When storing these chemicals and baits make sure they are placed so that the dog cannot access these products. We all know that Fido can be extremely ingenious when she wants to be, so place these items high out of reach or secure them in a rigid container with a lid.

Is there anything else that should be included on our list? If so, please click Easy Edit and type away!