is melaleuca mulch safe for dogs
It comes loose in the box open cautiously! Kaytee products are generally not disappointing, nor is it any different with this cedar chips mulch. All the the four mulches also deter termites to build nests underneath them. Due to its quick spread, it destroyed the native vegetation. For these reasons, utility mulch may not be a good choice for flower and vegetable gardens. Simple. The mulch is very comfortable and dogs love it. 5. 6. Not only that, but the mulch is then (triple shielded to remove excess dust that can irritate your pet and their skin.) It is non-toxic to dogs and should last up to 2 years. In addition, it absorbs urine and the odors from it perfectly. It assists deal with insects in the backyard. Do I need a permit to cut down my melaleuca tree? Found all over in Florida swamps, melaleuca trees grow rampantly. You can also use boric acid instead of diatomaceous earth. Is tea tree oil safe for dogs? K9 of Mine is reader-supported, which means we may earn a small commission through products purchased using links on this page. And those tunnels often end up in your home. It may also feature pieces with sharp edges that can injure your dogs paws, mouth, and intestines if ingested. Any of the dog-safe mulches discussed earlier will make better, safer alternatives. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. The rubber nuggets measure between and 1 in length. Due to the drying process, the odor control and absorbency of this mulch are outstandingly high. Dog owners must be careful when using mulch in their yards and gardens. We take great pride in presenting the most accurate and expert-vetted information. While others types of mulch may not necessarily be toxic, they can also be dangerous. Knowing these mulches will help you avoid choosing the wrong mulch. You should be able to cover 500 square feet with this 2.5 cubic foot cube. Kelsey Leicht There are two broad categories of mulch: organic and inorganic. The company is a leader in producing green products. About: Fir bark mulch is made of conifer (fir) tree bark and offers natural water-resistance and weed protection without dog-harming chemicals. Thanks to cedar oil, ticks and fleas will stay away from your dog. All you need to do is mix one teaspoon of boric acid with one cup of hot water. If you suspect that your pet has had an allergic reaction to mulch, its imperative that you seek medical attention immediately. Share with us in the comments. Remember subterranean termites gain access to your home from underground. Where can I get it? K9ofMine.com does not intend to provide veterinary advice. You can buy dog-safe mulch at your local lawn and garden store. Straw is safe for dogs. Cedar mulch. Mulch serves many purposes in the home landscape. The shavings are small and can stick to puppy paws. Break the jargon and help you make the right decisions for your furry four-legged friends. They need a more significant source of nutrition to live and multiply. Be sure to check out our article about the best grass for dogs. Sign up for our newsletter. In many cases, bark, sawdust. We all want the best for our dogs. Another mulch that is non-toxic and safe for dogs is pine. It is a mulch made of cedar chips that can be used outdoors and indoors. Mulch made from cocoa shells is known as cocoa bean mulch, and it is particularly toxic to dogs. Guaranteed 99% dust-free, it also keeps the mess in and ensures that you or your dog are not bothered by allergens in the air. They are located at Melaleuca, Inc. 4609 West 65th South Idaho Falls, ID 83402 and their phone number is (800) 282-3000. If you lay the mulch wrong, then the mulches that repel termites wont be as effective as they should be. Melaleuca mulch comes from the melaleuca tree. One Type of Mulch Can Be Toxic to Dogs One type of mulch is toxic to dogs, and it can be dangerous for them to digest, but it isn't sold by Gaston. Look for a type of mulch adapted to the type of plants you have in your garden and to the humidity of the areas. Eucalyptus mulch has a pleasant smell and features natural insect-repelling properties, which wins over many gardeners. Suitable for both outdoor and indoor use. Some dyed varieties are out there, however, so always check the manufacturers information to ensure youre getting a non-dyed, pup-friendly mixture. So, here are the mulches that attract termites . Our Choice: FloriMulch 1.5-cu ft Natural Melaleuca Mulch. Larger kibble of many can cause gastrointestinal obstruction if swallowed. Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. Cedar chips are warm and comfortable for dogs and easy for the owner to handle. But why should you choose this? Unfortunately, cocoa mulch is not safe for dogs. Allow your dog to roll around in softwood shavings or soft rubber mulch, knowing this will help him maintain an average body temperature all year round. Dogs, on the other hand, often chew on some types of mulch, which can be dangerous. The mulch also holds heat extremely well. As a bonus, they come in a handy resealable bag for added convenience! Consider buying one or more of these for your dog. However, in the case of some mulch (e.g. Dogs are natural chewers. But remember that termites cant survive on mulch for long. This site is supported by our readers. Not only does mulch risk blocking your dogs digestive tract, but jagged edges can cause oral injuries and internal damage if swallowed. If not, try walking, running, etc. If a diffuser is used, make sure there is open air circulation, and make sure the pet is not confined in an area where the scent is concentrated, Dr. Grewal said. Rocks typically arent targets for curious canine chompers, either (though there are exceptions). Vomiting (often repetitive, sometimes unproductive). Can you use mulch with dogs? As expected, it has a pleasant pine scent and can be useful in repelling certain insects such as mosquitoes. It is also a good alternative to harvesting native cypress trees. A: Melaleuca, Melaleuca quinquenervia, also known as punk tree, paperbark tree, or cajeput, is an invasive, exotic nuisance plant in South Florida. Natural wood that hasnt been painted or treated is also safe for dogs. Like other cedar mulch, it is natural, degradable, and smells good. And keep in mind that while these oils arent toxic, they still arent safe for your pup to eat, and they should only be used sparingly. Despite essential oils being all natural and safe for humans to use in diffusers and on skin, they can be harmful to most pets, including dogs, Dr. Alex Crow, a veterinarian with Happiest Dog, told The Dodo. Hey, my name is Peter, and I am the owner of this site. Four Winds Trading Natural Cedar Shavings 5. Already there are actually quite a few natural dog products . You might locate steel shavings in the item. The cypress trees that are such a large part of the native wetland areas are invaluable to the ecosystem for many reasons. It has an excellent deal of tiny pieces that can blow away. The company processes melaleuca into mulch and other products and helps replant native cypress. Many people use pine bark mulch as bedding for their dog. Youll given an open invitation to termites to invade your home and yard. Find more gardening information on Gardening Know How: Keep up to date with all that's happening in and around the garden. Rubber mulch is a very durable option. Coconut fibers have excellent water retention properties so you wont have to water your plants as often. For The Home Cedar is non-toxic to dogs, and the scent of cedar even repels insects. Although it looks like wood, rubber mulch is made from old tires, so unlike wood mulch, it is more durable and lasts longer, requiring almost no maintenance. On top of that, licorice mulch also maintains the soils carbon-to-nitrogen ratio which is critical for plants growth. Rubber mulch has no inherent repellent properties, but the synthetic material does not attract insects. 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. Dog-safe mulch can be used in a DIY dog run, but it tends to escape. Also, youll have to be mindful of the safety issues discussed above. Ive been a professional blogger for over six years, and in that time, Ive written countless blogs that have helped millions of people worldwide. If you see these signs, then its for you to act fast. Of course, typical of cedar, this mulch also drives away ticks and fleas. The Best Mulch for Dogs (Top 10 Brand Reviewed) of 2023 1. Before we get into killing termites in mulch, lets have a look at the signs of termites in the mulch. And you should avoid having your doggy chew on the rocks. The dark red color is a great addition to your garden. Essential oils are bad because pets are sensitive to them, Dr. Grewal told The Dodo. Boric acid is also safe for the soil. You might still have some questions surrounding mulch and dog-safe options. A: Yes, commercial, bagged melaleuca mulch has been composted thoroughly to kill viable seeds. Some customers said it was not sticky enough. Additionally, K9ofMine.com participates in various other affiliate programs, and we sometimes get a commission through purchases made through our links. She lives with a menagerie of furry and not-so-furry kids, including three dogs, some cats, a grumpy turtle, and her husband. Sign up to get all the latest gardening tips! Thomas is a regular contributor to our site and shares failproof methods to get rid of small pests. If your dog seems drawn to the area and chews on the mulch, consider removing it or replacing it with a different type of mulch. As you know, choose the wrong mulch around your home, and youll expose your home to termite invasion. Looking for an organic label is also helpful, as these mixtures cannot contain any pesticides or weed killers. The fresh wood scent assists in keeping pet odor down. Food grade diatomaceous earth works best when getting rid of termites and other bugs from the soil and mulch. He can even ingest them if he licks himself. (Hazards Of Feeding Eggplants), Can Dogs Eat Guava? The mulch is made from oriental red cedar blocks that have been filtered to make a good choice if your dog has allergies. 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. Choose the wrong mulch and youll have termites waiting right at your doorstep to invade your home. Use these two mulches and its for certain that these mulches will attract termites, especially when theres termite infestation in your neighborhood. Originally Published: June 18, 2020 They are readily available. In case your dog ingests the fibres, it can be easily digested. Before you get into what mulches keep termites away, its important for you to know what mulches attract termites. Chewing mulch can lead to digestive problems in the long run. Get tons of great dog training tutorials, canine gear guides, and the latest doggy discounts. You can use it with dogs, cats, but any pet. Savvy homeowners always use termite granules around their homes foundation. And because its cedar, it also keeps pests away. Will melaleuca be eradicated? Bermudagrass is a good option for big dogs that like to bound and romp around the yard because it has deep roots and does well in high-traffic areas. This is another product made of cedar shavings. Note that there is a risk of obstruction if swallowed, but your dog will be less likely to chew on rubber mulch since it wont have a sweet smell like some wood-based products do. 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. It is a superb really worth for the funds. Choosing the best mulch for dogs is essential, and you will find many good options when searching online. Melaleuca mulch is an excellent alternative to both cedar and cypress heartwood mulch if youre under budget. Softwood mulches are high in cellulose that termites eat to survive. Because dogs tend to chew mulch, be sure to avoid this version. And pine needles can stab the stomach lining. 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. In fact, many pet owners choose to use mulch as a lining in their dogs bedor kennel. In addition, it lasts longer than other types. And how to use these mulches, correctly. While we provide information resourced and canine education, the content here is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. 8. But keep in mind that termites dont eat the pine bark mulch and pine straw mulch. Is melaleuca mulch safe to use? 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. A damp soil, with pine straw mulch covering it, is a perfect place for the termites to establish their colonies. 9 min read However, keep in mind that dogs can choke on mulch and must still be supervised. If you want to grow something that is not on this list, be sure to confirm the plant is non-toxic to dogs. This mulch protects the soil and contains binders to create a firm coverage. Like the pine straw mulch, pine bark mulch also attracts termites. This means no extra cost to you. But if you use an excessive amount of boric acid or borax in the mixture, then it can damage the soil. Thats why its also known as Florimulch. If you use this product, you dont have to worry about fleas and ticks. This mulch protects the soil and contains bonding agents to create a solid cover. 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. We strive to ensure that our readers get most reliable information on the topics we cover. The product is dust-free, guaranteed by the manufacturer. February 9, 2008. Mulch comes in many different forms and colors depending on your budget and needs. And then Ill write about dangerous mulches. While dogs love the feel of mulch, its important to train them not to eat it, and if they get into the habit of eating it, it can have negative effects. Melaleuca is an exotic tree species that has overtaken Florida wetlands, and to limit the problem, environmentalists have encouraged grinding the invasive trees into mulch. So at least hes not going to chew on mulch, and there are plenty of other options these toys can offer (e.g. In short, it is a very good mulch against urine and the unpleasant odors it causes. Facts & List of Safe Mushrooms (2023), How to Boil Chicken for Dogs: Simple Steps of 2023. It has a 12-year color warranty and the manufacturer guarantees that its product will withstand all weather conditions. 12 Best Mulches for Dogs (Review): Pet-Safe and Pest Repellent. This toxin is dangerous to dogs and your furry companion will probably want to munch on the sweet-smelling cocoa bean mulch. Especially if your dog ingests that cocoa bean mulch can be toxic, so as we discussed above, this is not recommended; it just isnt worth the risk. My one dog tends to chew a bit on large pine bark chunks. On top of that, cedar mulch, cypress heartwood mulch, and melaleuca mulch are hardwood mulches. In the winter months, you should definitely get some mulch for your puppy. Cedarcide Insect Repelling Cedar Mulch 6. Cocoa mulch Tired of lugging around heavy bags of mulch? Its naturally found in the soil too. On the one hand, it provides a perfect bed for your dog, and on the other hand, it is also a great mulch for plants. But theres a smell that comes out from melaleuca mulch that you might not like. 1. My advice is to always try to choose products that contain natural ingredients. training). And termites in your yard or garden are just a few days away from your home unless you get rid of them. This is probably because they like the taste of wood and not rubber. This is another rubber mulch on my list with lots of positive features. Not only good for dogs, but for any pet. Dog Poop Disposal Ideas! Signs of an intestinal blockage include vomiting soon after eating/drinking, no bowel movements, lethargy, and a painful abdomen. Licorice tree is native to Central Asia. It has a long-lasting scent and very good odor control. 4. Some essential oils are poisonous to dogs. This makes it much finer, softer, and more comfortable. This mulch is nontoxic, durable, and looks great. On top of that, there are studies showing that pine straw mulch attracts termites. My posts may contain affiliate links. Your pet can digest straw and will be less likely to chew on it doesn't have a chunky texture. Boric acid kills the termites by dehydrating them, and termites cant survive the hot water. The curls also have a fresh earthy scent and act as a natural insect repellent. Copyright 2023 by K9 Of Mine / Marrsipan Media LLC |. By Any wood-based mulch is safe for your dog. Nevertheless, the goal should be to keep your dog from chewing them many times. Rubber mulch is also similar to materials used in dog toys, sometimes enticing your dog to chew or ingest it, risking obstruction. It does not have a thick texture. Cocoa bean mulch is made from cocoa shells and it is a very popular gardening product. The chips are small, fine, and soft. The mulches in the list lack both moisture and cellulose, and given the natural chemicals they have, these mulches repel termites. Some dogs and cats may exhibit symptoms of allergic reaction to certain types of mulch. You may want to seek the advice of your veterinarian. As an alternative, use can use borax, too, instead of boric acid. Bugs love mulches and so do the termites. This can cause serious dental and digestive problems. In addition, it is very easy to handle and clean. The five best mulches to avoid termites in your yard or garden are cedar mulch, cypress heartwood mulch, and melaleuca mulch, licorice root mulch, and redwood mulch. Cocoa bean mulch is made from cocoa shells and is a top-rated garden product. 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. It adds an attractive touch to flower beds, provides protection for plants, and helps keep the soil moist. Dig half an inch to an inch deep ditch around your homes foundation or on the places where you want to lay the mulch. It operates nicely to lower down the bugs. So, dont use chemical pesticides on the mulch to remove termites. Scatter termite granules in the ditch and water it. 9. Fortunately, more and more people are aware that mulch is not just a thing used in the garden. Licorice root mulch is steamed and grated root of licorice tree. Due to its caffeine and theobromine content, it causes very dangerous symptoms such as a fast heartbeat, seizures, or even death. It makes a good mulch because it does not float, it's long lasting, and it is not attractive to termites. According to Dr. Grewal and Dr. Crow, if your dog eats some essential oil, breathes it or gets some on his skin, symptoms can include: If you notice any of these symptoms of poisoning or you know that your pup got into some essential oil, contact your vet. Cedar is not toxic to dogs, and the smell of cedar actually repels insects. While weve included the best dog-friendly mulches on this list, your dog should never consume mulch, as every form poses a serious obstruction risk, regardless of ingredients. You might like to diffuse essential oils after cooking to get rid of the garlic smell or use lavender oil to relax before bed, but the next time you do, you should double-check that the oil youre using is safe for your dog. I have loved animals since I was a kid. The cedar mulch otherwise has a particularly pleasant scent. Never take the wait and see approach with poison, as time is of the essence for treatment. It makes a very small commission if you make purchases through the affiliate links on our site, at no extra cost to you. Yes it can be. All youve to do is sprinkle nematodes on the mulch area infested by termites and let it do its work. While essential oils can smell great and be super calming, there are some that are dangerous for dogs. Dr. Libby Guise earned her DVM from the University of Minnesota in 1994. Straw is traditionally used to grow grass seeds but you can use it for garden beds and other areas. Carefully research plants, gardening products, and chemicals before introducing them to your garden, and never let your dog eat anything youre not 100% sure is dog-safe. Store gardening products and tools out of your dogs reach. Its because cypress mulch contains sapwood. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.