Dog owners warned as we enter peak mushroom season

Seeing mushrooms on an autumn walk is a nice reminder of the seasons changing, but if your dog eats one - it could have fatal consequences. Dog experts Kennel Store have warned dog owners about the potentially devastating effects of mushroom poisoning, and advised what to do if you suspect your dog does eat a mushroom.

Dangers of mushroom and fungi

Wild mushrooms are extremely common in autumn and are often found in parks, woods and even your own garden. But some wild mushrooms can be toxic to dogs to pets and can grow rapidly overnight in mild, wet weather and can be hard to avoid.

Common Poisonous Mushrooms in the UK

Fly Agaric (Amanita Muscaria) – the easily recognisable fairy-tale mushroom with a red cap and white spotsDeath Cap (Amanita Phalloides)Deadly Webcap (Cortinarius Rubellus)Funeral Bell (Galerina Marginata)Destroying Angel (Amanita Virosa)Fool’s Funnel (Clitocybe Rivulosa)Panther Cap (Amanita Pantherina)Angel’s Wings (Pleurocybella Porrigens)

Symptoms of mushroom poisoning

If your dog has eaten a poisonous mushroom, the symptoms can vary between different varieties. But it’s important to be aware of the following:

Vomiting

Stomach ache

Diarrhoea

Lethargy

Excessive salivation and drooling

Wobbling, loss of balance

Yellowing of the white of the eyes or skin and gums

SeizuresLoss of motor control

CollapseOrgan (liver or kidney) failure

Coma

What to do if you suspect your dog has eaten a poisonous mushroom

If you suspect your dog has ingested a poisonous mushroom, take them to the vet as soon as possible. Take a picture, or if possible take a sample of the mushroom that has been eaten so your vet has an idea of what your dog has eaten and how to proceed with treatment.

You may not see your dog eat a mushroom. If you notice neurological signs, agitation, vocalisation (different to normal) or odd behaviours following a walk, take your dog to the vets.

Symptoms can be frightening so it’s important to stay calm and act quickly.