Providing Answers

How Long Does THC Toxicity Last in Dogs?

Key Points

  • Causes and Sensitivity to THC in Dogs

  • Common Symptoms and Duration of THC Toxicity

  • Toxicology and Metabolism of THC in Dogs

  • Veterinary Treatment and Supportive Care

  • Preventing THC Toxicity in Dogs

       Article reviewed for Accuracy by Dr. Rida Asrar.

 

As cannabis products become more widely available, pet owners may find themselves facing a situation they never expected: their dog accidentally ingesting THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), one of the psychoactive compounds in marijuana. So, understanding the symptoms, duration, and treatment for THC toxicity in dogs is crucial for pet owners who wants to ensure their furry friends safe.

What Causes THC Toxicity in Dogs?

THC  is the active component in marijuana. Dogs are more sensitive to THC than humans due to metabolic differences and the structure of their endocannabinoid system. THC toxicity occurs when dogs consume marijuana directly in the form of edibles, dried cannabis, or discarded joints.

Edibles are especially prone to accidental ingestion as they frequently contain other appealing ingredients such as chocolate or peanut butter, which can aggravate the toxicity by introducing additional dangerous substances.

Symptoms of THC Toxicity

Diagnostic signs usually appear within 30 minutes to 2 hours after ingestion. These symptoms can range from mild to severe, depending on the amount ingested and the size of the dog. Common symptoms include:

  • Lethargy or excessive sedation
  • Loss of coordination (shaky gait)
  • Dilated pupils
  • Hypersensitivity to sound or touch
  • Drooling or vomiting
  • Urinary incontinence
  • Slow heart rate (bradycardia)
  • Low body temperature (hypothermia)
  • Tremors or, in severe cases, seizures

The majority of cases of THC intoxication are not lethal but the symptoms can be distressing for both dog and its owner. In rare case, extreme ingestion of THC could be life threatening

How Long Do Symptoms Last?

The duration of THC toxicity in dogs varies depending on several factors, including the amount consumed, the dog’s size, and individual metabolism. Symptoms typically last 12 to 24 hours, however in some circumstances they might linger up to 36 hours. THC’s fat-soluble nature permits it to persist in the body’s tissues for longer period.

Small dogs when consume high doses of THC, such as concentrated edibles, can experience long lasting severe symptoms. Additionally, the presence of other ingredients, like chocolate or xylitol, can exacerbate the situation and potentially prolong recovery time.

Toxicology of THC in Dogs

Understanding the toxicity of THC in dogs is essential for comprehending why they are so susceptible to its effects. THC interacts with the endocannabinoid system, which is a network of receptors that regulate physiological processes like mood, appetite, and pain. Dogs have a higher concentration of CB1 receptors in their brains than humans, making them more sensitive to THC’s intoxicating effects.

When ingested, THC is metabolized in the liver and stored in fatty tissues before being slowly released into the bloodstream. This gradual release contributes to the long-term effects of THC toxicity in dogs. Additionally, THC metabolites are excreted through urine and feces, but the process can take longer in dogs due to their slower metabolic rate.

The toxic dose of THC varies greatly with the dog’s size, age, and overall health. Even small amounts of THC can cause notable effects in dogs, with doses above 3 mg/kg potentially resulting in severe toxicity. Edibles often pose a greater risk due to their high THC concentration and other harmful ingredients.

Veterinary Treatment for THC Toxicity

Once at the veterinary clinic, your dog will most likely be examined thoroughly to assess their condition. The veterinarian may perform tests to rule out other causes of the symptoms and confirm THC toxicity.

Treatment is usually supportive and aims to manage symptoms until the dog’s body metabolizes and eliminates the THC. Common treatments include:

  • Activated Charcoal: To bind any remaining THC in the stomach and prevent further absorption.
  • IV Fluids: To maintain hydration and support kidney function.
  • Temperature Regulation: Warming or cooling measures may be used if the dog’s body temperature is too low or high.
  • Anti-nausea Medications: To reduce vomiting or excessive drooling.
  • Sedatives: In some cases, mild sedatives may be used to calm hyperactive dogs.

Most dogs recover fully with appropriate care, but the recovery process may take several hours to a few days, depending on the severity of the toxicity.

Preventing THC Toxicity in Dogs

Prevention is the best way to protect your dog from THC toxicity. Here are some tips:

  • Store Cannabis Products Securely: Keep all marijuana products, including edibles, oils, and plants, in secure dog-proof containers and out of their reach.
  • Dispose of Waste Properly: Avoid leaving discarded joints or cannabis scraps in areas accessible to your dog.
  • Educate Household Members and Guests: Ensure everyone in your home knows the risks of THC toxicity in dogs and the importance of keeping cannabis products out of reach.
  • Know the Ingredients: Be mindful of edibles that contain other harmful substances, like chocolate or xylitol, which can pose additional dangers to dogs.

Conclusion

THC toxicity in dogs is a preventable but serious condition that can cause distressing symptoms and prolonged recovery times. While the symptoms usually resolve within 12 to 36 hours, timely veterinary attention is required to ensure your dog’s safety and comfort. By taking proactive measures to store cannabis products securely and staying informed about the risks, you can help safeguard your furry friend from accidental ingestion.

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
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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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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