As marijuana use becomes more common, so does the chance that your dog might accidentally eat some. And because dogs are so much smaller than people, even a little bit of marijuana, especially the THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) in it, can be dangerous.
This article is here to give you the lowdown on what to do if your dog eats weed. We’ll cover the signs of weed toxicity in dogs, what the risks are, and how a vet will likely treat your dog. We’ll also talk about how to store your stash safely and what you can do to prevent your dog from getting into it in the first place.
Why is marijuana (THC) dangerous for dogs?
The main ingredient in marijuana that gets people high is called THC. And it’s toxic to dogs.
Dogs are also way more sensitive to THC than humans are. So even a small amount of marijuana can have a big, bad effect.
THC interacts with something called the endocannabinoid system, which both people and dogs have. In dogs, THC overstimulates this system, which is why they get so sick. This is what leads to all those scary symptoms.
Recognizing the signs of weed toxicity in dogs
If you suspect your dog may have gotten into your stash, watch out for these signs of toxicity:
Neurological symptoms
- Loss of coordination. Known as ataxia, this may look like stumbling or a wobbly way of walking.
- Lethargy or agitation. Your dog may seem very sleepy, or just the opposite: unusually restless or anxious.
Cardiovascular and physiological symptoms
- Low heart rate. THC can cause bradycardia, or a dangerously slow heart rate, in dogs.
- Incontinence. You may notice a loss of bladder control.
- Fluctuations in temperature. Your dog’s body temperature may go up or down, leading to hypothermia (low temperature) or hyperthermia (high temperature).
Gastrointestinal and severe symptoms
- Vomiting. An occasional bout of vomiting may not be an emergency, but persistent or severe vomiting warrants a trip to the vet.
- Seizures. This is a serious sign of toxicity and requires immediate veterinary care.
Risk Factors: Marijuana Forms and Their Dangers
The specific type of marijuana your dog ingests will affect the severity of the symptoms. Here’s a quick rundown of some common forms:
Edibles
Edibles pose a higher risk to dogs than some other forms of marijuana. They often contain a concentrated dose of THC, and chocolate toxicity can be a factor, too.
Also, the effects of edibles are often delayed, so your dog may ingest a large amount before you notice any symptoms. The delayed reaction can also lead to overconsumption, which raises the toxicity level.
Tinctures
Marijuana tinctures can also be particularly dangerous because they’re highly concentrated. Because they’re delivered in liquid form, tinctures are absorbed quickly, so symptoms may appear sooner than they would with other forms of marijuana.
Smoked Marijuana
Even secondhand marijuana smoke can affect dogs, although the effects are usually less severe than they are with direct ingestion. Discarded marijuana butts can also be a hazard if your dog ingests them.
What to do if you think your dog ate weed
If you even suspect that your dog ingested marijuana, the first and most important thing to do is call your vet right away. Don’t wait to see if symptoms develop; prompt action is crucial.
Be honest with your vet about the possibility of marijuana exposure. Vets are there to help, not judge. Providing accurate information will allow them to give your dog the best possible care. Mention any symptoms you’ve noticed, what form of marijuana your dog may have eaten (e.g., a bud, an edible), and how much they may have consumed.
Treatment for marijuana ingestion in dogs can include inducing vomiting (if it’s recent), administering activated charcoal to absorb the THC, and providing supportive care like IV fluids and close monitoring of vital signs. Your vet will determine the best course of action based on your dog’s specific situation.
Prevention is Key
The best thing you can do is keep your dog away from marijuana in the first place. Here’s how:
- Lock it up: Store all marijuana and marijuana products in a locked, high-up cabinet that your dog can’t access, even if they try.
- Check your CBD: If you use CBD products, read the label carefully. Some may contain THC.
- Tell your friends: If you have guests, let them know you have pets and ask them to be mindful of where they leave their belongings.
To Conclude
It’s important to remember that marijuana ingestion can be dangerous for dogs, so prompt veterinary care is essential. You can prevent problems by storing marijuana securely, being aware of risk factors, and practicing responsible use.
Taking these proactive steps is crucial for your canine companion’s safety and well-being.