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When Dogs Get High: Stories from the Vet’s Office and Lessons Learned

Key Points

  • Increasing THC Toxicity Cases Among Dogs

  • Real-Life Examples Highlight Risks and Costs

  • Recognizing Symptoms of THC Toxicity

  • Preventive Measures for Pet Owners

  • The Necessity of Prompt Veterinary Care

       Article reviewed for Accuracy by Dr. Asmat Khan.

When Dogs Get High: Stories from the Vets Office and Lessons Learned Real-life anecdotes from veterinarians on treating dogs exposed to THC, and key takeaways for pet owners.

As cannabis legalization expands, veterinarians are encountering an increasing number of cases involving dogs that have inadvertently ingested THC, the psychoactive component of marijuana. Such incidents often result in significant health issues for the animals and considerable emotional and financial distress for their owners. Through real-life anecdotes from veterinary professionals, we can glean valuable lessons on prevention, recognition, and response to THC exposure in dogs.

Case Study-1: Oscar’s Unexpected Encounter

In August 2024, Stephen Davidson’s eight-year-old West Highland Terrier, Oscar, became lethargic and unresponsive after a routine beach walk in Sheerness, Kent. Concerned by Oscar’s sudden change in behavior, Stephen rushed him to an emergency veterinary clinic. The attending veterinarian diagnosed Oscar with THC intoxication, likely from ingesting discarded cannabis on the beach. Oscar required intravenous fluids and activated charcoal to eliminate the toxin from his system, resulting in a £900 veterinary bill. This incident underscores the importance of vigilance during walks and the necessity of immediate veterinary attention when unusual symptoms arise.

New York Post

Case Study-2: Coco’s Close Call

Coco, a nine-month-old Yorkie-Havanese mix, was rushed to an emergency animal hospital after her owners noticed alarming symptoms, including lethargy and incoordination. The veterinarian confirmed THC toxicity, attributing it to accidental ingestion of marijuana. Coco’s treatment involved supportive care to manage her symptoms, and she eventually made a full recovery. This case highlights the critical role of prompt veterinary intervention and the need for pet owners to be aware of their surroundings, especially in areas where cannabis use is prevalent.

CBC

Veterinary Insights and Lessons Learned

Dr. Carly Fox, a senior veterinarian at BluePearl Pet Hospital in New York City,  explains that dogs are particularly susceptible to THC due to their smaller size and different metabolism compared to humans. She emphasizes that even small amounts of THC can lead to severe symptoms in dogs, such as vomiting, tremors, and seizures. Dr. Fox advises pet owners to be transparent with their veterinarians about potential THC exposure, as this information is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

BluePearl Veterinary Partners

Preventive Measures for Pet Owners

To prevent accidental THC ingestion, pet owners should store cannabis products securely, out of reach of pets. This includes edibles, which may be enticing to dogs due to their resemblance to regular food items. During walks, especially in public areas, owners should monitor their dogs closely to prevent them from picking up unknown substances. Educating all household members about the dangers of THC to pets is also essential in preventing accidental exposure.

Recognizing Symptoms of THC Toxicity

Common signs of THC toxicity in dogs include lethargy, incoordination, dilated pupils, urinary incontinence, vomiting, tremors, and agitation. These symptoms can appear within 30 minutes to an hour after ingestion. If a dog exhibits any of these signs, especially after potential exposure to cannabis, immediate veterinary attention is crucial.

American Kennel Club

The Importance of Prompt Veterinary Care

Timely veterinary intervention can significantly improve outcomes for dogs exposed to THC. Treatment may involve decontamination procedures, such as inducing vomiting or administering activated charcoal, and supportive care to manage symptoms. In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary to monitor and stabilize the dog’s condition. Delaying treatment can lead to more severe health issues and prolonged recovery times.

Conclusion

The rise in THC toxicity cases among dogs serves as a critical reminder for pet owners to exercise caution and responsibility regarding cannabis products. By learning from real-life veterinary experiences, owners can better understand the risks, recognize symptoms, and take preventive measures to protect their pets. Open communication with veterinarians and prompt action in the event of exposure are key to ensuring the health and safety of our canine companions.

Topical Archive

Information and procedures found on MyDogAteEdibles.com categorized as follows:
  1. Veterinary Care & Emergency Response
  2. CBD Science & Perspectives
  3. THC Toxicity & Its Risks for Dogs
  4. Prevention & Awareness
  5. Cannabis Trends & Owner Awareness
  6. Practical Guidance for Pet Owners
  7. Supplementary Information
——————————————–
1. Veterinary Care & Emergency Response
Contact Vet Immediately
What If Your Dog Ingests Cannabis?
Natural Remedies for Mild THC Poisoning in Dogs
A Vet’s Guide to Protecting Dogs from Cannabis Toxicity
 
2. CBD Science and Perspectives
Science Behind CBD
The Role of Cannabidiol (CBD) in Treating Epilepsy
Why THC-Free CBD Products Are Safer and Legally Approved for Pets
General Information About CBD, THC, and Metabolism
 
3. THC Toxicity & Its Risks for Dogs
Role of Genetics: Why Some Dogs Are More Vulnerable to THC Toxicity Than Others
Can THC Toxicity Cause Long-Term Effects in Dogs?
Cannabis Toxicity in Dogs
How Long Does THC Toxicity Last in Dogs?
Cannabis Ingestion Symptom Checker
 
4. Prevention & Awareness
The Importance of Training Your Dog to Avoid Harmful Substances
When Dogs Get High: Stories from the Vet’s Office and Lessons Learned
Beware! Your Dog May Eat These Edibles
How Holidays Increase THC Exposure Risks for Dogs: Prevention Tips
Can Dogs Smell Marijuana? Why You Need to Be Extra Cautious!
 
5. Cannabis Trends & Owner Awareness
Cannabis Trends and Pets – What Every Owner Should Know About Emerging Products
What Are the Common Sources of THC Exposure?
What Are the Best Dog-Safe Alternatives to Marijuana for Relaxation and Anxiety Relief?
 
6. Practical Guidance for Pet Owners
How Do I Find a Good Veterinarian?
What About Pet Insurance for Marijuana?
Can My Dog Get High in a Room with Smokers?
 
7. Supplementary Information
Reviewers and Contributors
Resources
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Topical Archive

All of our articles are arranged by helpful topics including:
Veterinary Care & Emergency Response
CBD and Its Benefits
THC Toxicity & Its Risks for Dogs
Prevention & Awareness
Cannabis Trends & Owner Awareness
Practical Guidance for Pet Owners
Supplementary Information

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Science Behind CBD

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Who We Are

At MyDogAteEdibles.com, we are passionate dog lovers who are deeply concerned about the growing issue of dogs accidentally ingesting cannabis edibles. As the prevalence of cannabis products increases, so too does the risk of our beloved pets being exposed to something that can be harmful to them. Seeing this rise in incidents inspired us to take action, and that’s why we launched this website—to raise awareness and provide dog owners with the crucial information they need in these situations.

Our mission is to educate and inform the community about the dangers of cannabis toxicity in dogs. We aim to equip you with the knowledge to recognize the signs of cannabis ingestion, understand its effects, and take the necessary steps to protect your pet. Through our resources, you’ll find clear, specific guidance on what to do if your dog accidentally consumes cannabis, as well as comprehensive information on how this substance can affect their health. Our hope is that, with greater awareness and preparedness, we can reduce these unfortunate accidents and keep our furry friends safe and happy