Mushroom season in Caithness can be deadly for dogs
With mushrooms abundant in places like Dunnet Forest in Caithness, local dog owners are warned about the potential dangers for their pets.
September to November is peak mushroom season in the UK, and whilst they are nice to see on a winter walk they are incredibly dangerous and, in some cases, fatal to dogs. Dog experts Kennel Store explain some of the dangers of mushrooms and fungi.
Wild mushrooms are extremely common in autumn and are often found in parks, woods and even your own garden. But some wild mushrooms can be toxic to dogs and can grow rapidly overnight in mild, wet weather and be hard to avoid.
Common Poisonous Mushrooms in the UK
• Fly Agaric (Amanita Muscaria) – the easily recognisable fairy-tale mushroom with a red cap and white spots
• Death Cap (Amanita Phalloides)
• Deadly Webcap (Cortinarius Rubellus)
• Funeral Bell (Galerina Marginata)
• Destroying Angel (Amanita Virosa)
• Fool’s Funnel (Clitocybe Rivulosa)
• Panther Cap (Amanita Pantherina)
• Angel’s Wings (Pleurocybella Porrigens)
Symptoms of mushroom poisoning
If your dog has eaten a poisonous mushroom, the symptoms can vary between different varieties. But it’s important to be aware of the following:
• Vomiting
• Stomach ache
• Diarrhoea
• Lethargy
• Excessive salivation and drooling
• Wobbling, loss of balance
• Yellowing of the white of the eyes or skin and gums
• Seizures
• Loss of motor control
• Collapse
• Organ (liver or kidney) failure
• Coma
What to do if you suspect your dog has eaten a poisonous mushroom
If you suspect your dog has ingested a poisonous mushroom, take them to the vet as soon as possible. Take a picture, or if possible take a sample of the mushroom that has been eaten so your vet has an idea of what your dog has eaten and how to proceed with treatment.
You may not see your dog eat a mushroom. If you notice neurological signs, agitation, vocalisation (different to normal) or odd behaviours following a walk, take your dog to the vet.
Symptoms can be frightening so it’s important to stay calm and act quickly.
