Dog owners warned to watch out for mushroom poisoning symptoms this autumn
There are several common species found in the UK that can be fatal to your dog if eaten - here's what to look out for
by Catherine Addison-Swan · ChronicleLiveDog owners have been warned to be on the lookout when walking their four-legged friends for a common sight that could pose a serious health risk to their pet.
Mushrooms and fungi thrive in the cooler, wetter weather of autumn, with many different varieties sprouting up in fields, parks, woodland and even gardens. Your dog may see them as a snack while sniffing through the grass - but there are several species that are highly toxic and can cause unpleasant symptoms if ingested, even proving fatal in some cases.
While there are some types of mushroom that are safe for dogs to eat, including shop-bought varieties like chanterelle, porcini and morel, you should always avoid letting them eat mushrooms found in the wild due to the risk of poisoning. Dog experts at Kennel Store have broken down which common toxic mushrooms you should be watching out for, as well as what might happen and what to do next if your pet eats one.
Common poisonous mushrooms in the UK
Here are some of the most common varieties of mushroom found in the UK that are poisonous to pets to look out for next time you're out with your dog:
- Fly Agaric (Amanita Muscaria)
- Death 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)
It's worth researching these types to see what they look like; however, it's worth noting that many of these species can not only differ vastly in their appearance, but look very similar to safe edible varieties of mushroom. For this reason, it's strongly advised not to let your dog eat any type of mushroom they come across outdoors.
Symptoms of mushroom poisoning in dogs
If your dog has eaten a poisonous mushroom, the symptoms can vary between different varieties. In general, you should look out for the following warning signs:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Lethargy
- Excessive salivation and drooling
- Wobbling and loss of balance
- Yellowing of the white of the eyes or skin and gums
- Seizures
- Collapse
- Coma
What to do if you think your dog has eaten a poisonous mushroom
The experts urged: "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."
They added: "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."
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