“Mushrooms appear to be more prevalent this year due to the rainy wet weather,” said Cynthia Gaskill, DVM, PhD, who is a clinical toxicologist at LDDC, in a statement released by the LDDC on Aug. 3. “Thousands of species of mushrooms exist, many of which do not pose a threat to animals. However, a number of poisonous mushroom species exist and can potentially cause poisoning in animals.

“Mushrooms can contain a variety of toxic substances, and clinical signs vary greatly depending on mushroom type and toxins present,” the statement continued. “Identification of mushroom species is virtually impossible for the lay person and can even be difficult for experienced mycologists. Identification of mushrooms and determination of risk can be assisted by providing information on regional location, growth substrate, and tree type if growing in association with trees.”

“Reducing exposure is always helpful with any potential toxicosis. Fortunately, mushroom toxicity in large animals is a rare occurrence. We see this more in small animals,” Gaskill said