For many Australians, backyards are sanctuaries—places for family barbecues, gardening, and, of course, a haven for our beloved pets to roam and play.
But what if we told you that lurking beneath the grass and garden beds could be a silent, toxic threat capable of turning your peaceful weekend into a costly nightmare?
That’s exactly what happened to an Aussie family in the Southern Highlands of New South Wales.
Their story is a sobering reminder that even the most ordinary corners of our homes can hide dangers we might never suspect.
A mysterious illness strikes
It all began on a seemingly normal Saturday morning. Tara Cheslett noticed her three-year-old border collie, Flash, behaving oddly. He was wobbly on his feet, dazed, and confused—far from his usual energetic self.
Alarmed, Tara rushed him to the vet, where his symptoms only became more baffling: he was unbalanced, unable to empty his bladder, and experiencing muscle spasms. ‘It actually looked like someone had drugged him,’ Tara recalled.
Despite a battery of tests, the cause of Flash’s distress remained a mystery. It was only after a thorough search of the backyard that the culprit was discovered: a cluster of Honey Fungus mushrooms, quietly thriving in the garden.
The hidden dangers of honey fungus
Honey Fungus (Armillaria species) is native to Australia and commonly found in parks and gardens, especially in the southern and eastern states.
While it might look harmless—or even pretty—this fungus contains toxins that can cause severe gastrointestinal and neurological issues in dogs.
In humans, symptoms are usually less severe, but can still include digestive upset if the mushrooms are eaten raw or improperly prepared, and skin irritation from contact.
What makes Honey Fungus particularly insidious is how easily it can go unnoticed. It often grows on tree stumps, roots, and decaying wood, spreading underground and popping up in unexpected places. For pet owners, this means that even a well-tended garden can harbour hidden risks.
A chain reaction of trouble
After being sent home from the vet, Flash’s condition took a turn for the worse. The toxins in his system triggered erratic behaviour—he began zooming around the backyard uncontrollably, eventually crashing into a shed. In the chaos, a piece of tin severed a tendon in his leg, compounding the family’s distress.
The financial toll was staggering: $1,100 for surgery and a further $3,500 in vet bills, totalling more than $4,600. ‘I definitely, definitely would not wish this upon anyone. Not for the animal, not for the stress. And last but not least, definitely not for the pocket,’ Tara said.
Why are mushrooms so dangerous for pets?
Many Australians are surprised to learn just how many common backyard mushrooms are toxic to pets. Dogs, in particular, are at risk because of their curious nature and tendency to sniff, lick, or eat things they find outdoors. Symptoms of mushroom poisoning in pets can include:
- Vomiting and diarrhoea
- Lethargy or hyperactivity
- Muscle tremors or seizures
- Uncoordinated movements
- Excessive drooling
- Abdominal pain
If you notice any of these symptoms and suspect your pet may have eaten a mushroom, seek veterinary help immediately. Time is of the essence, as some toxins can cause irreversible damage within hours.
How to protect your pets (and family)
Unfortunately, there are no chemical treatments to eradicate Honey Fungus from your garden. However, there are practical steps you can take to reduce the risk:
Regularly inspect your yard: Especially after rain, check for mushrooms and remove any you find. Wear gloves and dispose of them in a sealed bag.
Remove dead wood: Honey Fungus thrives on decaying organic matter. Clear away old stumps, roots, and fallen branches.
Create physical barriers: Fencing off areas where mushrooms are known to grow can help keep pets away.
Educate your family: Make sure everyone in your household knows not to touch or eat wild mushrooms.
The cost of not knowing
Tara’s story is, unfortunately, not unique. Across Australia, pet owners are facing hefty vet bills and emotional distress after their animals encounter toxic mushrooms.
In some cases, the costs can soar even higher—one family reportedly faced a $40,000 bill after their dog was poisoned by a common garden threat.
When in doubt, call the vet
If you ever suspect your pet has eaten something toxic, don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Call your vet or the Animal Poisons Helpline (1300 869 738) immediately. Quick action can make all the difference.
Have you had a close call?
Have you ever found mysterious mushrooms in your garden? Or had a pet fall ill after a backyard adventure? Share your experiences in the comments below—your story could help another reader avoid a similar ordeal.
And remember: sometimes, the greatest threats are the ones we can’t see. A little vigilance can go a long way in keeping our furry friends safe.
Also read: It’s wild mushroom season in Australia. Here’s how to stay safe and avoid poisoning
