Are Those Mushrooms Toxic?
Mushrooms! Mushrooms Everywhere!
You may have noticed more mushrooms popping up since we’ve had some rainy days, but how do you know which ones are toxic for your pets?
There are thousands of types of mushrooms but only a few are considered toxic.
According to the Pet Poison Helpline, the Amanita, Galerina, and Lepiota mushrooms cause the majority of fatal mushroom toxicities. In general, pet owners must consider all mushroom ingestions toxic unless a specialist accurately and quickly identifies the species as safe.
The best way to prevent mushroom toxicosis in your pets is to keep from having access to them at all. Search your yard routinely and dig up any mushrooms (including the stem) while wearing gloves. Dispose of them out of your pet’s reach (but not in the compost)! Keep your dog on a regular (not retractable) leash when walking outside and keep your eye on them! Teach your dog “Leave it” or “Drop it” which is a useful skill in many circumstances.
If you think that your pet has ingested a mushroom, please either call us, an emergency vet, or the Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661) as soon as possible.
