Mushroom Poisoning in Dogs 

Mushrooms can be toxic to dogs. The problem with them is that they can be hard to properly identify. Unfortunately, their range of toxicity goes from no big deal to deadly. Mushrooms often grow during wet and warm weather, and that can be any time in spring or fall. There are many species of mushrooms that exist, but knowing the specific name is not always the most important aspect. The categories include: hepatoxic, neurotoxic, gastrointestinal, and nephrotoxic. We will go into further detail about each form below.

Hepatoxic – Amanitin is one of the types of these mushrooms. They are responsible for acute liver failure. The bad thing is that these mushrooms can be found throughout North America and are commonly found in the Pacific Northwest, parts of California and the northeastern part of the United States.

Neurotoxic – These are the types of mushrooms that will cause hallucinations. Onset of signs with these mushrooms is going to be more rapid – as soon as 30 to 90 minutes to less than six hours. Signs of weakness, tremors, and seizures may occur with the consumption of these mushrooms.

Gastrointestinal – This is a relatively large group of mushrooms with signs that may be mild to severe. Onset of signs will be on the rapid side, as soon as 15 minutes after consumption. Extreme cases of vomiting and diarrhea are symptoms of the consumption of this type of mushroom.

Nephrotoxic – This is a more elusive group of mushrooms. Signs would be expected to include polydipsia and polyuria, vomiting, nausea, and dehydration.

If this doesn’t tell you that mushrooms are toxic to dogs, we don’t know what will! Due to the potential seriousness of mushroom exposure in a pet, you will have to disregard worrying about the identification of the mushroom type. Instead, seek veterinary advice and/or care when your pet is under mushroom intoxication.