BEWARE OF SPRING DANGERS

COCOA MULCH

(Source: snopes.com/critters/…/cocoamulch.asp)

Veterinarians have noted that cocoa mulch contains ingredients that could pose a health risk to dogs (and other pets that might be tempted to ingest it): “Cocoa mulch is a risk, especially to dogs,” said Dr. Larry Family of Aqueduct Animal Hospital.

Found in most home garden centers, cocoa mulch is known for its fine texture and sweet smell the fresh mulch gives off.

But getting past the scent, Family says cocoa mulch can be dangerous if a dog starts eating it. It contains two key ingredients found in chocolate: theobromine and caffeine. Similar to eating chocolate, he says a dog that eats just a few ounces of Cocoa Mulch could start having stomach problems and it could get worse if it eats more.

“As time goes on they might act restless, excited, it can produce tremors and serious seizures,” Family explained.

“Puppies are very curious animals. So they’re going to be attracted to various things around the yard and [the effect of eating cocoa mulch] seems to be more severe in the small breeds, and it depends on the amount they actually ingest,” Family said

For more information on Cocoa Mulch please go to http://www.snopes.com/critters/crusader/cocoamulch.asp

FUDGE loves shoes

I recently brought my 14 week old dachsund/chihuahua mix puppy, Fudge, in for a visit with Dr. Carrie Wright.  I just wanted to say how wonderful and reassuring Dr. Wright is, and to thank her for her care and concern regarding Fudge.  Her obvious love of animals is evident in every thing she does and says, and I am grateful to know that someone loves our new baby as much as we do.  We look forward to spending many years with Park Animal Hospital.

Thanks for everything! Wendy Horner-Lormand