Dog Ate Mulch & Is Throwing Up (What to Do)

The sound of your beloved dog retching and heaving can be quite alarming, especially when you notice some chunks of mulch in the vomit. You might assume that it is just a minor issue, but in actual truth, your canine friend could be in danger.

Mulch is usually made up of several substances, such as wood chips, leaves, and grass clippings, often mixed with chemicals to keep pests at bay.

When your dog ingests the mulch, it can cause irritation and damage to the intestines, leading to vomiting and diarrhea. But do not fret just yet! There are ways to help your dog go through this ordeal safely.

In this article, we will provide practical solutions that involve quick actions to help your furry best friend. Get ready to learn tips on identifying mulch toxicity symptoms in dogs and how to stop the vomiting. So take a deep breath, and let’s dive in!

Risks Of Mulch Ingestion In Dogs

Mulch is commonly used when landscaping to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and provide an overall polished look to a garden or outdoor space. However, while it may be beneficial for plants, it can be quite harmful to your dog when ingested. Some of the risks associated with mulch ingestion in dogs include;

1. When a dog eats too much mulch, it could obstruct its airway and cause choking. This is a life-threatening situation that needs to be addressed immediately.
2. Depending on the size and amount of mulch ingested, it can cause blockages in a dog’s digestive tract, making it hard for your doggo to pass feces.
3. Intestinal irritation is often times triggered by the chemicals from mulch. It irritates the stomach lining and intestines, leading to vomiting, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal issues.
4. Some types of mulch contain substances such as cocoa or walnut shells, which can be toxic to dogs when consumed in large amounts.

It is very important to monitor your dog closely whenever they spend some time in the garden or around mulch. Ensure you seek a vet’s attention if you notice any distress or unusual behavior symptoms.

What To Do If Dog Eats Mulch

If your dog ingests mulch, there are steps you can take to help mitigate the situation. Here are things you can do to help your doggo;

1. Check Your Dog’s Symptom

Observe your dog closely for any signs of discomfort, vomiting, or diarrhea. If they seem lethargic or have been vomiting severely as well as having tremors and seizures, do not hesitate to call your vet immediately.

2. Induce Vomiting

If your canine companion eats mulch within the last two hours, you can induce vomiting to get rid of the mulch. You can do this by giving them hydrogen peroxide making sure it is one teaspoon per 10lbs of body weight or taking them to the vet to receive an injection.

3. Provide Supportive Care

If your dog is not showing severe symptoms, but you still want to monitor their condition, there are a few things to do to help. Offer your dog small amounts of water or ice cubes, as they may be dehydrated from vomiting or diarrhea. you can also attempt to give your dog a bland diet for two days.

4. Contact Your Vet

Regardless of whether your dog seems to be doing fine, it is essential to contact your vet and let them know what happened. Your vet can offer advice on what to do next and provide further support and guidance to keep your dog safe and healthy. Always keep in mind that prevention is way better than cure.

Home Remedies For Vomiting Due To Mulch Ingestion In Dogs

If your dog is vomiting due to mulch ingestion, there are some home remedies you can attempt to help them feel a bit better. These remedies may not cure the root of the issue but they can provide temporary relief and minimize the risk of dehydration.

1. One of your top priorities is to withhold food for at least 12 hours. This is because it will give your dog’s digestive system a chance to rest and recover.
2. Dehydration is a high risk to consider, however, you can combat this issue with ice cubes. Offer your dog ice cubes to nibble on as it helps with thirst and keep your dog hydrated.
3. Ginger contains anti-inflammatory properties and can help soothe a dog’s upset stomach. You can offer your dog fresh ginger or ginger tea (1 – 2 tsp per 10 lbs of body weight).
4. When you must have elapsed 12 hours of fasting your dog, and he seems ready to eat again, offer them a bland diet of just boiled chicken and rice. Their digestive system will easily digest this and provide their bodies with the necessary nutrition.

Conclusion

If your dog has eaten mulch, it is very important to act quickly and safely they get the care they need. When you suspect your dog has ingested mulch, watch out for signs of discomfort, vomiting, or diarrhea.

However, if you are still very concerned about your vet or there isn’t any sign of improvement after trying this home remedy, take your dog to the vet immediately.