When the mushrooms sprout in autumn and the walkway smells of damp earth, our four-legged friends' curiosity also increases. But this is exactly where the dangers lurk: Between the leaves and moss, harmless mushrooms stand close to dangerous doppelgangers, where even a small bite can have serious consequences. Below you can find out how to reduce the risk of mushroom poisoning and what to do in an emergency.
From: Alena Thielert
The short answer is: Better not. Even supposedly edible varieties can cause gastrointestinal problems in dogs. There is also an enormous risk of confusion with poisonous mushrooms. Some toxins also have a delayed effect and remain active despite heating. Therefore, it is better not to feed dogs mushrooms.
Mushrooms often grow between leaves, moss and in freshly mown lawns exactly where our dogs sniff curiously. Both in the forest and in your own garden, they can become a danger without you noticing. Some species are highly poisonous and can cause serious organ damage, which in the worst case can even be fatal.
Among the particularly dangerous mushrooms are:
Mushroom poisoning in dogs can look very different depending on the toxin. Common symptoms are:
Attention: Symptoms may start immediately - or hours later. Some poisons have a delayed effect, so that the dog initially appears inconspicuous but is still at risk. If in doubt, take any abnormality seriously and have it checked by a vet.
If your dog has eaten a poisonous mushroom, every minute counts. Stay calm and follow our step-by-step guide:
Fungal poisoning is an acute emergency. Early, professionally supervised steps such as controlled emptying of the stomach, binders and infusions can have a positive influence on the course and reduce complications. The faster the help, the better the chances.
In the fall, proactive management is the best way to protect your four-legged friend. Keep the garden mowed and regularly remove any mushrooms - a thorough check is particularly worthwhile after periods of rain.
When going for a walk, it's better to choose firm paths and avoid typical mushroom hotspots such as damp carpets of leaves, moss and dead wood. Play it safe in the forest by keeping your furry friend on a lead. A well-fitting muzzle can also be helpful for notorious "vacuum cleaners". A reliable stop signal such as "off" and generous rewards for alternative behaviors help to prevent your dog from finding things interesting in the first place. It's best to use particularly tasty snacks like our irresistible
Alena Thielert
