Could Magic Mushrooms Pose A Risk To Dogs?

Psychedelic mushrooms, also known as magic mushrooms or shrooms, are toxic to dogs and can cause hallucinations, altered perceptions, and even life-threatening seizures. These mushrooms contain the psychoactive compound psilocybin, which can cause hallucinations and altered perceptions in dogs. The main groups of mushrooms that cause neurological signs in dogs include psilocybin (“magic”) mushrooms, hydrazines, and isoxazole mushrooms.

While some mushrooms may be legal in some places, it is important to be cautious around them. The ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control Center reports that pet exposures to hallucinogenic mushrooms do occur, and many mushrooms are toxic and can cause serious or even life-threatening illness. Some common recreational drugs, such as amphetamines, methamphetamine, and 3,4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine (MDMA), are not as common as other recreational drugs.

Mushroom ingestion by animals is dangerous, causing toxicities that can progress from severe to deadly in a matter of hours. The majority of confirmed fatal mushroom toxicities in pets are due to mushrooms from the following species: manita, Galerina, and other edible varieties. Wild mushrooms range from edible varieties to those that cause vomiting, hallucinations, or even liver failure and death in people and pets.

A retrospective study analyzed all inquiries of mushroom ingestion in dogs to the Norwegian Poison Information Center from 2011 to 2022. If your dog eats magic mushrooms, it is crucial to assess and call your vet immediately. It is essential to be aware of the potential dangers of canine mushroom consumption and to take necessary precautions to protect your pet’s health.