Oh no! Your dog ate a yard mushroom. What should you do now? Read this article for advice on what to do next and how to keep your dog safe.
Some mushrooms are safe to eat for dogs but if you don’t know which type of mushroom has grown in your garden and your dog has eaten some of them, then you should immediately take your dog to the Veterinarian.
What Should I Do if My Dog Eats a Wild Mushroom?
Mushrooms that are gathered in the wild and that are not cultivated commercially, are wild mushrooms. Most of these mushrooms are poisonous and can be very dangerous for your dog. The effects of these wild mushrooms range from vomiting, tummy ache, coma, and even the death of the little soul.
That’s why if you have noticed that your dog has eaten some of these wild mushrooms then wait no longer and immediately take them to the vet.
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How Serious Is Mushroom Poisoning?
Mushroom poisoning is caused by eating poisonous mushrooms. These types of cases are growing from day to day because it’s so easy for dogs to eat mushrooms that have grown in a garden or backyard.
Just like with humans, mushroom poisoning can cause some serious health issues in dogs. In some cases, it becomes difficult for Veterinarians to save the life of the little paw.
Can Dogs Eat Store-bought Mushrooms?
Yes, dogs can usually eat store-bought mushrooms. But you should not allow your dog to eat mushrooms that grow in your backyard. In all types of mushrooms, only 2% of them are poisonous. But still, you should double-check the mushroom before giving it to your little paw because it’s a matter of their health.
Health Benefits of Mushrooms
Mushrooms that are safe to eat come with a lot of health benefits. Some of the benefits of eating mushrooms are as follows:
- Vitamins: Mushrooms are full of vitamins like vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin B. All of these vitamins have their own benefits and are necessary for their body.
- Potassium: This important mineral is essential for your dog’s body. It improves the functionality of the heart and muscles. Moreover, it also keeps the dog’s kidney functioning well.
- Riboflavin: Riboflavin is a coenzyme that improves the metabolism of dogs. It’s an essential element that keeps your dog fit and healthy.
- Niacin: Niacin also known as Vitamin B3 is available in different mushrooms. It Improves blood fat levels and the skin of dogs.
- Pantothenic Acid: Pantothenic acid (also known as vitamin B5) improves the overall metabolism of dogs.
- Antioxidants: Mushrooms are full of antioxidants like Vitamin C, Ergothioneine, and Glutathione which decrease the risks of diseases in dogs.
Which Mushrooms Can My Dog Eat?
Usually, store-bought mushrooms are safe to eat for humans. But you should double-check whether they are good for your dog or not,
Safe Mushrooms for Your Dog
Some store-bought mushrooms are safe for your canine companion. Here is a list of safe mushrooms for your dog:
- Reishi (Ganoderma Lingzhi)
- Maitake
- Shiitake
- Porcini
- Oyster Mushrooms
- Portobello
- Cremini
- White Button
Mushrooms That Are Poisonous to Dogs
The following mushrooms are poisonous to dogs. So avoid giving them to your little canine companion.
- Fly Agaric (Amanita Muscaria)
- Panther Cap
- Jeweled Deathcap (Amanita Gemmata)
- Death Cap (Amanita Phalloides)
- Fools Webcap
- Galerina Marginata (Deadly Galerina)
- Gyromitra Esculenta
- Inocybe SPP
Signs & Symptoms of Mushroom Poisoning in Dogs
If your little paw has eaten any poisonous mushroom then they could show a lot of symptoms depending on the type of mushroom they have eaten. Some of these symptoms include:
- Vomiting, tummy ache & lethargy
- Excessive salivation and drooling
- Wobbling, loss of balance
- Yellowing of the whites of the eyes or skin and gums
- Seizures and diarrhea
- Loss of motor control
- Salivation and weakness
- Ataxia (staggering gait)
- Coma
- Liver failure
- Jaundice
- Abdominal pain
“ This blog post does not provide any medical advice. It is intended for informational purposes only. If your dog is in a serious condition then it’s better to consult with a Vet. ”
Diagnosis and Treatment of Mushroom Poisoning in Dogs
If your dog has eaten a poisonous mushroom then don’t wait and take them straight to a Veterinarian. Different types of mushroom poisoning require different types of treatment. So, it’s better to accept help from a Veterinarian rather than doing experiments at home. In most cases, the doctor may give salty water to your dog for vomiting. It will help your dog to throw away the poisonous elements.
When you visit a Veterinarian be ready to answer these questions:
- Which type of mushroom has your dog eaten?
- How long since he ate it?
- How much did he eat?
It’s better to take the mushroom with you because it will help the Veterinarian to identify the type of mushroom that your dog has eaten.
How Can I Prevent Mushroom Poisoning?
There are several easy steps that you can follow to prevent future accidents. Some of the things that you can do to prevent your dog from eating poisonous mushrooms are as follows:
1. Don’t Let Them Wander in Your Backyard
The first step that you can take is that you should not allow your dog to wander in the backyard or anyplace where mushrooms are easily available.
2. Use a Fence
The sense of smell in dogs is very high so they will always try to go to the place where mushrooms are grown. That’s why using a fence is the best solution to prevent your little paw from wandering to that place.
3. Give Them Food at The Proper Time
If your dog is hungry then they will try to find something to eat. The little soul doesn’t know what’s good or not good for them. So, give them food at the proper time.
Final Thoughts
I hope this article will help you a lot in understanding the difference between wild mushrooms and safe mushrooms. Keep your dog safe and sound by giving them only store-bought mushrooms.
Sometimes the treatment of mushroom poisoning could be very costly. That’s why in order to protect your paw from future incidents you should immediately get pet insurance. If you like this post then share it with your loved ones!
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