How can I protect my dog from poisonous mushrooms and fungi?

Mushroom species reach their peak at this time of year so people can expect to find them rapidly sprouting in mild, wet areas such as woodlands, parks and gardens until late November.

Dog experts from Kennel Store have shared some crucial advice on how to protect pets from toxic variants. 

READ MORE: Abandoned puppies found in Beccles area ready for rehoming

What are the most common poisonous mushrooms in the UK?

Some of the most common variants are the:

• Fly Agaric
• Death Cap 
• Deadly Webcap 
• Funeral Bell
• Destroying Angel
• Fool’s Funnel 
• Panther Cap
• Angel’s Wings

What do poisonous mushrooms look like?

The fly agaric is the easily recognisable fairy-tale mushroom with a red cap and white spots.

A 'fairytale' mushroom spotted in Thetford Forest(Image: Karl Brooker) The others are harder to spot but signs to be aware of include white gills, a ring around the stem, a volva, a red colour on the cap or stem and a putrid smell.

What symptoms do dogs show after eating a poisonous mushroom?

Dogs that have eaten a poisonous mushroom may show symptoms such as vomiting, a stomach ache, diarrhoea, lethargy, excessive drooling, wobbling, yellowing of the eyes, skin or gums, seizures, loss of motor control and collapsing.

READ MORE: Hamster saved from cat at Essex pub is adopted in Norfolk

What do I do if my dog eats a poisonous mushroom?

The experts say people who suspect their dog has eaten a poisonous mushroom should seek immediate help.

"Take them to the vet as soon as possible," they said. 

"Take a picture or, if possible, take a sample of the mushroom so your vet has an idea of what your dog has eaten and how to proceed with treatment.

"You may not have seen your dog eat a mushroom but if you notice neurological signs, agitation, unusual vocalisation or odd behaviours following a walk, take them to the vets."

They added that some symptoms can be "frightening" so it is important to "stay calm and act quickly”.