Turkey tail, lion’s mane, and reishi are three potent mushrooms that are safe for pets to consume when they need a serious immune boost. As far as managing cancer in dogs, it’s one of the best alternatives out there.

When Blueberry received her diagnosis of hemangiosarcoma, I desperately searched for something other than chemotherapy that would help her with comfort and more quality time. That’s when I came across turkey tail mushrooms, and after hours of research, I decided to place her on a combination of turkey tail, lion’s mane, and reishi mushrooms. If we were going to fight hemangiosarcoma, I was going to find every possible remedy that would safely

Remember that turkey tail, lion’s mane, and reishi mushrooms are not cures for cancer. They can, however, play a vital part in stimulating the immune system and fighting cancer cells. For example, turkey tail mushroom studies in people have revealed improvements in the longevity of patients with gastric cancer. Undoubtedly, medicinal mushrooms for pets should be part of your fur companion’s cancer-fighting regimen. Of course, before you start any new therapy, even if it is natural, speak to your vet about it.

Turkey Tail Mushroom (Trametes versicolor)

Turkey tail mushroom is packed with phenols, which are antioxidants that protect against oxidative stress. This reduces the risk of cell damage, which can lead to chronic diseases and the development of cancer. But what makes this mushroom so unique is its abundance of polysaccharopeptides, which significantly strengthen the immune system. More specifically, Polysaccharide-Krestin, or PSK, is a powerful immune booster and a natural killer! PSK activates natural killer (NK) cells in the body, which are known to target and attack cancer cells and infections. In Japan, PSK is used to support patients undergoing chemotherapy. Polysaccharide Peptide, or PSP, is another important constituent that enhances the function of immune cells, such as macrophages. PSP can suppress inflammation and fight tumors.

For dogs, turkey tail mushroom is not only safe but a potent cancer-fighting therapy. Blueberry received organic turkey tail mushroom powder daily, along with 3 months of chemotherapy. You might have read that the turkey tail mushroom is recommended for dogs with hemangiosarcoma, with many articles reporting improved longevity from 2 to 3 months to a year. While turkey tail is an incredible supplement, in my experience, chemotherapy combined with medicinal mushrooms offers the best prognosis. Berry lived for 10 months after her diagnosis, and when she passed, the vet mentioned that very few dogs of her size make that survival time.

My advice is to exercise caution when it comes to claims of dogs with hemangiosarcoma reaching a lifespan of one year or more using natural remedies alone. With surgery and chemotherapy, dogs can live for a year, but this depends on how early the cancer was detected, whether it involves spread to the lymph nodes, and subsequent treatment. Turkey tail mushroom is a wonderful aid, and I believe that it helped Blueberry, but it is not a cure. Dogs that haven’t received chemotherapy have a prognosis of 3 to 4 months.

Blueberry received 3 months of chemotherapy supported by a regimen of turkey tail mushroom, lion’s mane mushroom, and reishi mushroom that I discuss in more detail below:

Choose Organic Turkey Tail with Dual Extraction

The best turkey tail mushroom product for dogs with hemangiosarcoma and other types of cancers is a liquid extract or tincture with dual extraction. Dual extraction maintains the integrity of polysaccharopeptides. Look for compounds PSP and PSK.

Dosage

The recommended daily dose is at least 100 mg per kg of body weight. You can mix it with your pet’s regular kibble or favorite treat.

Lion’s Mane Mushroom (Hericium erinaceus)

Lion’s mane mushroom is the brain booster of them all! Easily identified by its hairy exterior, this fuzzy mushroom can improve heart and gut health, along with cognitive function. The mushroom contains antioxidants, such as polysaccharides and terpenoids, that prevent cell damage. Most importantly, it has beta-glucan, a polysaccharide with anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating properties that are anti-cancer and anti-metastatic.

Clinical studies involving lion’s mane and mice have shown anti-metastatic results, particularly in colon and gastric cancer.

Dosage

Look for high-strength lion’s mane extract between 1000 and 3000 mg or a ratio of 10:1. Provide your pets with two to three daily servings of lion’s mane.

Reishi Mushroom (Ganoderma lingzhi)

Reishi mushroom is another health-boosting alternative that you should add to your pet’s diet. The mushroom can minimize allergies and reduce inflammation. Reishi contains polysaccharides, such as beta-glucans, to strengthen the immune system. Antioxidants prevent free radical cell damage, reducing the risk of cancer and heart disease. The reishi mushroom possesses anti-cancer compounds that inhibit tumor growth and is said to protect heart and liver function.

When Not to Take Reishi

Reishi is not recommended for people or pets with bleeding disorders, low blood pressure, or immune system disorders. The medicinal mushroom must not be consumed at least two weeks before surgery to prevent bleeding and poor wound healing. Reishi works as a vasodilator, improving blood flow to the heart, but it also increases the risk of excessive bleeding, particularly in pets with these conditions.

Blueberry wasn’t given reishi because hemangiosarcoma is considered a bleeding disorder. It’s always a good idea to talk to your veterinarian before introducing supplements to your pet’s healthcare plan.

Dosage

Organic reishi mushroom is most effective at a dose of 10 to 15 mg per kg of body weight. Pets of up to 20 lbs benefit from a 200 mg reishi extract per day while dogs of between 50 lbs and 100 lbs should be given an 800 mg extract daily. Start with half of the recommended dosage and increase over a few days to help you fur companion build tolerance. Lastly, always monitor for symptoms, such as changes in appetite and digestive upset. Stop using the supplement if your dog has a negative reaction.

The Benefits of Medicinal Mushrooms for Pets

Turkey tail mushtroom, lion’s mane mushroom, and reishi mushroom are potent and natural foods that have become the focus of many studies concerning cancer and infections in pets. Each medicinal mushroom has antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that boost immunity and support recovery from conditions, including kennel cough, Parvovirus, and allergies.

In my own experience, the combination of these mushrooms is most effective against cancer.