06/05/2026
🍄⚠️ Bay Area Pet Owners: Watch Out for Death Cap Mushrooms! ⚠️🍄
With recent rain and damp weather, mushrooms are beginning to appear throughout Marin County and the Bay Area—including the highly toxic Death Cap Mushroom (Amanita phalloides).
Death Cap Mushrooms are one of the most dangerous mushrooms in the world and are commonly found in Northern California, especially near oak trees. While dogs are more likely to investigate and eat mushrooms, both dogs and cats can be affected by mushroom toxicity. Even a small amount can cause severe liver damage and become life-threatening.
Signs of mushroom toxicity can include:
🐾 Vomiting
🐾 Diarrhea
🐾 Drooling
🐾 Weakness or lethargy
🐾 Loss of appetite
🐾 Yellowing of the eyes or gums
One of the biggest concerns is that symptoms may not appear immediately. If you see your pet eating a mushroom—or even suspect they may have—seek veterinary care right away. Early treatment can make all the difference.
As a general rule, we recommend preventing pets from eating any wild mushrooms, plants, foreign objects, or unknown substances outdoors. Accidents can happen when you least expect them, whether on a walk, at the park, or even in your own backyard.
If you suspect your dog or cat has ingested a mushroom or other toxin, contact your veterinarian immediately. It is also helpful to keep these poison control numbers saved in your phone:
📞 ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: 888-426-4435
📞 Pet Poison Helpline: 855-764-7661
Stay safe out there, and give your yard an extra scan after rainy days! ❤️🐶🐱
