Have you ever experienced that heart-stopping moment when you realize your furry friend has done something they shouldn’t have? Well, imagine coming home to find out that your dog has indulged in a marijuana brownie. It may sound comedic at first, but the situation can quickly turn serious. Read below to explore the potential dangers and side effects when dogs consume marijuana, why it’s crucial to seek immediate veterinary help, and how to prevent such accidents from happening in the future.
Risks of Marijuana Ingestion
The two main active compounds found in cannabis are THC and CBD. THC is responsible for immediate psychotropic effects. CBD is non-psychotropic, meaning that it has a more calming and subtle effect. THC is the active compound most toxic to pets while CBD is toxic if consumed in large doses. If your dog ingests marijuana or an edible containing a large amount of THC, symptoms will become noticeable within 30 minutes to an hour. The most common case of marijuana ingestion in dogs is from eating an edible, such as a marijuana brownie.
Symptoms of Marijuana Ingestion
Depending on the dose and strain of marijuana ingested, your pet may experience symptoms for as long as 24 hours. The signs are very distinctive, and you will likely notice some of the following:
- Vomiting
- Dilated pupils
- Lethargy
- Sedation
- Abnormal heart rate
- Irregular body temperature
- Dribbling urine
- Difficulty walking
- Agitation
- Tremors
- Seizures
- Unusual vocalization
- Increased sensitivity to stimuli
Treatment
If your dog has eaten a marijuana brownie and you’re noticing signs of toxicity, do not hesitate to call your veterinarian and Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 for medical assistance. Although no true antidote for cannabis exists, pets experiencing symptoms from marijuana usually do well with supportive care. Your veterinarian may monitor your dog’s body temperature, provide IV fluids, administer anti-emetic drugs and activated charcoal. Monitor your pet and provide plenty of fresh water. If you have further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to Pet Poison Helpline today.