Dog Ate Shrooms? Here’s What To Do

Discovering that your dog has ingested psilocybin mushrooms can be a terrifying experience for any pet owner.

These fungi are toxic to dogs and can lead to serious health complications.

The severity of the symptoms depends on the amount ingested; larger doses can cause severe reactions, including tremors or seizures, which can be fatal. It is critical to contact a veterinarian right away.

In this guide, we’ll explore what happens if a dog eats magic mushrooms and the immediate steps you should take to address the situation.

You often know when your dog is acting out of the ordinary.

If there’s even a slight chance your dog could have had access to magic mushrooms, it’s important to know the key symptoms to watch for.

These indicators can signal that something is seriously wrong, and taking quick action is important.

Here are symptoms to look out for:

Disorientation or Confusion

Your dog may appear visibly confused, have difficulty walking straight, or seem unsure of their surroundings.

Vocalization

Increased whining, barking, or other unusual vocal behaviors in your pet could be signs of distress caused by hallucinations or discomfort.

Pupil Dilation

One of the more noticeable signs is dilated pupils that do not change in response to light.

Coordination Problems

Watch for signs of unsteadiness or a lack of coordination. Your dog might stumble, sway, or have trouble with simple movements.

Vomiting or Diarrhea

These are common reactions as your dog’s body attempts to expel the toxic substance.

Changes in Heart Rate

Psilocybin can cause either an increased or decreased heart rate. Listen for any rapid or unusually slow heartbeats.

Agitation or Restlessness

Your dog may seem restless, agitated, or anxious without any apparent cause.

Hyperactivity or Lethargy

You might notice an extreme shift in activity levels, whether it’s unexpected hyperactivity or unusual lethargy.

Altered Response to Stimuli

Your dog might react oddly to sounds, sights, or touches that would normally not bother them.

If you observe any of these symptoms and suspect that your dog has ingested psilocybin mushrooms, it’s crucial to act immediately. Do not wait for all symptoms to appear or for their condition to worsen.

If you discover your dog has ingested magic mushrooms, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Delaying to see if symptoms develop could compromise your dog’s health. Although inducing vomiting might seem like a proactive step, it’s important not to do so unless directed by your vet, as it could potentially worsen the situation.

Be honest with the vet about what your dog has ingested so your furry friend can receive the best and most appropriate treatment.

Once you’ve alerted your veterinarian, they may advise you to bring your dog in immediately or provide specific first aid instructions to manage at home. It’s crucial to follow their guidance precisely and be prepared for prompt action.

Acting quickly and with informed decisions is key to managing this emergency effectively and can significantly influence your pet’s recovery.

Your veterinarian is your best resource when it comes to determining the most effective treatment plan for your dog after ingestion of toxic substances.

They will tailor the treatment according to the severity of the symptoms and your pet’s specific needs, aiming for a safe and speedy recovery.

Once the vet has assessed the situation, they’ll outline the appropriate treatment options.

Here’s what you might expect:

Your vet will first work to stabilize your dog, especially if they are exhibiting severe symptoms. This might include administering IV fluids to prevent dehydration and to help flush the toxins from their system more quickly.

One common treatment is the administration of activated charcoal. This substance binds to the toxins in the stomach and intestines, reducing their absorption into the bloodstream. Your vet might administer this if your dog is brought in soon after ingestion and hasn’t vomited excessively.

Depending on your dog’s symptoms, your veterinarian may prescribe medications to manage them. These could include anti-nausea drugs to prevent vomiting, anticonvulsants if your dog is experiencing seizures, or sedatives to calm severe agitation.

Continuous monitoring of vital signs is crucial. Your vet will monitor your dog’s heart rate, respiratory rate, and temperature closely, adjusting treatment as needed based on its condition.

Supportive care includes keeping your dog calm and comfortable during their recovery. They may need to be kept in a quiet and dimly lit space to reduce sensory stimulation, which can exacerbate their symptoms.

After the initial treatment, follow-up visits may be necessary to ensure your dog fully recovers. These check-ups will allow the vet to assess any long-term impacts of the ingestion and to adjust any ongoing treatment.

After treatment for magic mushroom ingestion, closely monitor your dog for any lingering or new symptoms.

Follow your vet’s home care instructions, which may include a bland diet and limited physical activity to help your dog rest. Keep their environment calm and stress-free.

Be alert for any long-term effects, such as neurological changes or gastrointestinal issues, and discuss any concerns with your vet.

Finally, take preventive measures to avoid similar incidents in the future, like removing dangerous plants from areas where your dog hangs out.