Recreational and medical marijuana, or weed, is becoming more commonplace in the United States. With weed’s increasing popularity, especially being used as an ingredient in various products, there is a higher chance that your dog will encounter and ingest weed. This includes any candy, creams, beverages, or smoke that contains weed. Weed or marijuana is not safe for any pets, especially your dog. There are pet-friendly CBD products, but they should be used under the guidance of a veterinarian. In this article, we will cover signs to look out for when your pet ingests any form of marijuana and the appropriate treatments.
Symptoms of Weed Poisoning
The effects of weed poisoning in dogs can vary from mild to severe, depending on the dosage. Symptoms may appear within 30-60 minutes after consumption. Severe symptoms may persist for up to 96 hours. It is important to keep any forms of weed away from your dog. Common poisoning symptoms include:
- Dazed expression
- Glassy eyes
- Incoordination
- Slow response times
- Dribbling urine
- Vomiting
- Drooling
- Changes in heart rate
- Hyperactivity
- Vocalization
- Coma
Treatment for Weed Poisoning
The most dangerous ingredient in weed for your pets is THC. There is no antidote for THC poisoning, so take your dog to your veterinarian as soon as possible to address all symptoms. Provide your veterinarian with an estimate of how much weed your dog consumed as that can influence the treatment they receive. If you can, bring a sample of what they consumed. They will attempt to induce vomiting by administering activated charcoal. IV fluids may be provided to combat any symptoms. Supportive care will be necessary for at least a day or two until the symptoms subside. If your dog has ingested marijuana or its derivatives, contact your vet and Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 immediately.
