Mushroom Toxicity in Dogs

Fatal Fungus:  Mushroom Toxicity in Dogs

While the white button and other edible mushrooms we buy at the grocery store are not usually a problem, wild mushrooms are often toxic to dogs.  With damp weather, mushrooms often grow in yards and area parks. Our recent rains make it prime mushroom weather.   There are many species of mushrooms that grow throughout the United States that can be toxic if ingested.  Amanita species (death cap or destroying angel) are one of the most common, and several species of these highly toxic fungi grow in Pennsylvania. Some mushrooms cause only mild symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea. But others can cause lethargy, anxious or aggressive behavior, seizures, irreversible liver damage and even death depending on the type of toxin present.  Wild mushrooms should be considered dangerous unless you are very familiar with which mushrooms are harmless.  Symptoms may not occur until 10-12 hours after ingestion.  Many mushrooms look very similar in appearance, so identification of toxic vs. edible varieties can be tricky. 

            If you think your dog has eaten a mushroom, treat it as an emergency and seek immediate medical care.  Rapid decontamination of the patient is critical. This may include making the pet vomit, sedating the patient to pass a stomach tube to “pump” his or her stomach to empty the contents or giving activated charcoal to prevent further absorption of toxins.  IV fluids and other supportive care given as soon as possible after ingestion can increase the chance of recovery.  Bring a sample of the mushroom to the vet with you if possible.  Your pet will also likely have blood tests done to check liver function. 

            If mushrooms grow in areas where your pet may have access to them, try to remove them from the yard or prevent access unless you are absolutely certain they are non-toxic.  Remember, if you see your pet eat any wild mushroom, err on the side of caution and seek immediate medical attention.  Dogs can die rapidly of mushroom poisoning.  Having your dog seen as soon as possible may make the difference between a happy vs. a tragic ending.  

            This blog brought to you by the Patton Veterinary Hospital serving Red Lion, York and the surrounding areas.  Comments or questions welcome on our website or Facebook page.