Mushroom Poisoning in Dogs

Mushrooms (aka toadstools) are often found on lawns but in addition to looking unattractive, mushroom poisoning in dogs is of great concern to pet owners. Since few people are fungi experts, it is best to ensure your dog does not eat any mushroom while in the yard, park, or walking in the neighborhood.

Effects of Mushroom Poisoning in Dogs

Depending on the type of mushroom a dog eats, side effects can include coma, hyperactivity, and hallucinations. According to Pet Education, mushroom poisoning in dogs can cause damage to the heart, liver and kidneys, and eventually become fatal.

Signs of Mushroom Poisoning in Dogs

If you suspect your dog has ingested a mushroom and he suffers from the following symptoms within six hours of ingesting the mushroom, try to induce vomiting and take your dog to an emergency veterinary hospital immediately.

• Abdominal pain
• Coma
• Depression
• Diarrhea
• Drooling
• Hallucinations
• Hyperthermia
• Kidney Failure
• Liver Failure
• Nervous system dysfunction (e.g. lack of muscle coordination)
• Seizures
• Vomiting

Click here for a list of emergency animals hospitals in Houston.

Note: If you can obtain a sample of the mushroom your dog ingested, wrap it in a moist paper towel or wax paper and place it in a paper bag. Take it with you as different species of mushrooms will have different effects.

ANIMAL POISON CONTROL CENTERS

ASPCA National Animal Poison Control Center
1-900-443-0000 ($60.00 per case. The charge is billed directly to caller's phone.)
1-888-4ANI-HELP (1-888-426-4435. $60.00 per case, billed to caller's credit card only.)
Follow-up calls can be made for no additional charge by dialing 888-299-2973.
There is no charge when the call involves a product covered by the Animal Product Safety Service.

Pet Poison Helpline
24-hour service available throughout North America for pet owners and veterinary professionals who require assistance with treating a potentially poisoned pet.
1-888-213-6680 ($35.00 per incident). Staffed 24-hours a day.

* This article was previously published on the Houston Dogs Examiner site by Bobbi Leder.