As cannabis becomes increasingly legalized and prevalent in households, the risk of pets, especially dogs, accidentally consuming it also rises. While cannabis might be harmless or even beneficial to humans in controlled amounts, it can pose serious health risks to our canine companions as they have many more cannabis receptors than humans. If you find yourself in an unfortunate situation where your dog has ingested cannabis, it’s crucial to act swiftly and knowledgeably. Here’s what you need to know and do if your dog consumes cannabis.
Recognizing Cannabis Toxicity in Dogs
First, it’s essential to recognize the signs of cannabis toxicity in dogs. Common symptoms include:
- Lethargy: Your dog may appear unusually sleepy or unable to stay awake.
- Dilated Pupils: Noticeably large pupils can be a telltale sign.
- Disorientation: Your dog may seem confused, uncoordinated, or have difficulty standing and walking.
- Drooling: Excessive drooling can indicate nausea.
- Vomiting: This is a common response to ingesting something toxic.
- Tremors or Seizures: In severe cases, your dog might experience muscle tremors or seizures.
- Increased Heart Rate: Tachycardia, or a rapid heartbeat, can occur.
- Incontinence: Loss of bladder control is another possible symptom.
Immediate Actions to Take
If you suspect your dog has consumed cannabis, take the following steps immediately:
- Assess the Situation: Try to determine how much cannabis your dog has ingested and what form it was in (e.g., edibles, dried plant material, oils). This information can be crucial for the vet.
- Do Not Induce Vomiting: Unlike with some toxins, inducing vomiting is not always recommended for cannabis ingestion. It can be harmful, especially if your dog is disoriented or having trouble breathing.
- Keep Your Dog Hydrated. Just like humans get cottonmouth dogs do too. To an even greater degree so make sure your pet is drinking plenty of water.
Keep Your Dog Calm and Comfortable: Create a quiet, comfortable space for your dog. Dim the lights and minimize noise to help reduce anxiety and overstimulation.
- Contact Your Veterinarian: Call your vet immediately for advice. Be prepared to provide details about the ingestion and your dog’s symptoms.
- Seek Emergency Veterinary Care: If your vet advises it, or if your dog is exhibiting severe symptoms (such as seizures, severe disorientation, or loss of consciousness), go to the nearest emergency veterinary clinic right away.
Veterinary Treatment
At the veterinary clinic, treatment will focus on managing symptoms and supporting your dog’s recovery. This may include:
- Activated Charcoal: To prevent further absorption of THC (the psychoactive compound in cannabis).
- IV Fluids: To maintain hydration and support kidney function.
- Medications: To control symptoms such as vomiting, tremors, or seizures.
- Monitoring: Close monitoring of your dog’s vital signs and overall condition.
Preventive Measures
Preventing cannabis ingestion is key to keeping your dog safe. Here are some tips:
- Store Cannabis Securely: Keep all cannabis products, including edibles and oils, out of reach of pets. Use childproof containers and store them in high, locked cabinets.
- Educate Household Members: Ensure everyone in your home understands the importance of keeping cannabis away from pets.
- Be Cautious with Edibles: Cannabis-infused edibles, like brownies and gummies, can be particularly tempting to dogs. Be extra vigilant about storing these securely.
Conclusion
While it can be frightening if your dog consumes cannabis, knowing how to respond can make all the difference. Recognize the signs of toxicity, act quickly to get veterinary help, and take preventive measures to keep cannabis out of reach. With prompt and appropriate care, most dogs recover fully from cannabis ingestion, but the best approach is always prevention. Stay informed and vigilant to keep your furry friend safe and healthy.
