So Your Dog Ate A Mushroom...

Mushrooms, which are really the "fruits" of their large networks of underground mycelium, pop up throughout spring, summer, and fall; especially after heavy rains. You'll probably keep seeing mushrooms around until temperatures start to drop below freezing!

We know some mushrooms are safe for us humans to eat, including several kinds found in Virginia, but what about for dogs? Now, many dogs won't really see mushrooms as food, but we know our four-legged friends are curious and sometimes think with their stomachs.

Well, for starters, it's best to assume any mushroom can be poisonous unless you are 100% sure it is safe, and this applies regardless of who eats it. This is because many safe, edible mushrooms have poisonous look-a-likes! However, there are some easily recognizable ones that you should be keeping an eye out for.

Infographic by Healthypaws

Although this says to take your pup to the emergency vet if you notice symptoms, it's usually recommended to take them right away if they've eaten any wild mushrooms. Even if there aren't visible symptoms yet, getting veterinary attention quickly will make sure they have the best possible outcome. Depending on the type and amount of mushroom eaten, symptoms of mushroom toxicity can range from slight tummy upset to liver or kidney failure, which is why quick action is so important.

Some resources available if you suspect (or know) your dog has eaten a wild mushroom, besides your local emergency vet, are:

• Pet Poison Helpline: call 1-855-764-7661. They have agents available 24/7 and can give initial advice

• Emergency Plant & Mushroom Identification Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/144798092849300

How can you prevent your dog from eating wild mushrooms? First of all, if you have a yard, pick and throw away any mushrooms you find. Amanitas (ominously called Death Cap and Destroying Angel above) in particular often grow in grassy areas such as yards. Removing them is the most surefire way to make sure your pup can't get to them.

If you're regularly taking walks in the woods, this might be a little trickier, but there are still ways you can reduce the risk of mushroom ingestion. Stick to marked trails, keep an eye out for mushrooms along the path, keep your dog leashed, and make sure they have a solid recall and/or "leave it" command, just in case they get a little too interested.

And finally, what about store-bought mushrooms? After being cooked, those are fine for dogs in small amounts if they haven't been seasoned with things like pepper or garlic. They shouldn't hurt your pup, so they can have a small taste if you feel like sharing! Please remember that these are just general recommendations. Be sure to ask your vet for more specific advice that is tailored to your dog and your dog's health conditions.