How to make decking timber pet-safe?

xLeesh

Hi, hoping for some advice on a synthetic grass “deck” we built. Our puppy has started chewing on the wood which prompted me to do some research on its toxicity. Can we keep using this, fix it/put metal or something over it or should we just completely replace the wood? It is built out of treated pine. I will attach the photos of the wood as well as the finished product. 

MitchellMc

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @xLeesh. It's fantastic to have you join us and many thanks for your question about treated pine timber.

It’s definitely a good idea to be cautious. Treated pine isn’t considered pet-safe if chewed or ingested, as it contains preservatives designed to protect the timber from rot and insects. Even small amounts can irritate a pet’s mouth or stomach. Fortunately that timber isn't CCA-treated which is more toxic than H3 treatsments such as LOSP and ACQ.

 

If your puppy is only chewing the surface, you could try covering exposed edges with metal corner protectors or a pet-safe barrier, and make sure any gnawed or splintered sections are sanded smooth and sealed. However, if chewing continues, replacing those sections with untreated hardwood or another pet-safe material would be the safest long-term option.

 

Please let me know if you have any questions.

 

Mitchell