Remodeling your yard? Be aware of the types of mulch you use if you have a dog!

Is Cocoa Mulch Toxic to dogs?  Cocoa mulch is made from the hulls of coca beans.  Although already processed to remove most of the chocolate, the hulls still contain the chemicals caffeine and theobromine that are toxic to dogs.  While safe for humans, dogs lack the enzyme needed to metabolize theobromine, meaning that even small levels can cause toxicity.  Signs of chocolate toxicity are restlessness, vomiting, diarrhea, panting, hyperactivity, and in severe cases heart arrhythmias, seizures and death. Our recommendation is that if you have a dog, choose a different type of mulch.