Mushrooms have been getting quite a bit of attention lately. While fans of HBO’s popular series The Last Of Us may be growing wary of them, these fascinating fungi actually have some wonderful health benefits for both people and pets. A Denver, CO vet discusses medicinal mushrooms for pets below.
Health Benefits
Mushrooms are packed with nutrients, such as vitamins B and D, folates, phosphorus, selenium, copper, and potassium. They also have anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties, and can stabilize blood sugar, lower cholesterol, and help boost immunity. They’re great for liver and kidney function, and can even help lower blood pressure, and prevent heart disease and cancer. Ask your vet for more information.
Types Of Mushrooms
Different types of mushrooms have different health benefits. For instance, Turkey Tail mushrooms, which have long been a part of the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) roster, are credited with strengthening the lungs and boosting immunity. These can also be beneficial for those inflicted with gastric and colorectal cancers. In fact, a study from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine found that pups that were given turkey tail mushrooms after having chemotherapy had the longest post-chemo survival times ever reported. Reishi mushrooms, on the other paw, contain powerful antioxidants. They also boost immunity and lower blood pressure. Cordyceps mushrooms can help lower blood sugar, and also have blood thinning, antifungal, and antibacterial properties. These can be helpful for pups with allergies or chronic illness. Last but not least, we have the powerul Chaga mushroom, which can boost immunity and reduce inflammations.
Supplements
Mushroom supplements can be just as beneficial for pets as for people. However, it’s important to talk to your vet before getting your furry buddy started on any supplements. This is partly to ensure correct dosages. Also, any supplement or treatments should be offered on a case-by-case basis. Mushrooms may not be suitable for pooches with certain health issues, such as bleeding disorders, liver or kidney problems, or diabetes.
Foraging
As we all know, some mushrooms can be deadly. Don’t let Fido eat wild mushrooms! You may want to teach him the command to Leave It. If you know or suspect that your pup has eaten wild mushrooms, contact your vet or a pet poison control center immediately.
Do you want to learn more about medicinal mushrooms for pets? Contact us, your animal clinic in Denver, CO, today!
