One of the most important things to remember when welcoming a new puppy into your home is that they are curious, energetic, and teething. As a result, they may explore and chew on anything within their reach, including things they shouldn’t, such as weed. If your puppy accidentally ingests weed, it can have various adverse effects on their health. It’s crucial to recognize the signs of marijuana toxicity and seek immediate veterinary attention if you suspect your puppy has ingested weed.
Understanding The Risks
Your puppy can experience adverse effects if they consume weed. Dogs may stay away from recreational weed but go for an edible that has been left out. This dosage and size of your puppy can determine how marijuana will affect them. Higher THC concentrations will result in a more serious poisoning case. Marijuana toxicity is serious and requires veterinary attention.
Clinical Signs of Marijuana Poisoning
If your puppy has ingested marijuana or products containing THC, they may experience poisoning. Symptoms of poisoning can appear within minutes or an hour after inhaling or ingesting THC. Here are common symptoms of marijuana poisoning in dogs:
- Decreased heart rate
- Hyperactivity
- Changes in behavior
- Coma
- Dazed expression
- Glassy eyes
- Incoordination
- Delayed reaction times
- Dribbling urine
- Vomiting
- Drooling
Treatment
If your puppy consumed weed, call your veterinarian and Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 for first aid advice. If the ingestion was recent or in a large amount, monitor your pup for clinic signs and take them to the veterinary clinic. Treatment is both supportive and symptomatic. Your veterinarian may induce vomiting and administer activated charcoal to bind the toxins. Your veterinarian will monitor and stabilize vital signs. Recovery will take time and patience to let the symptoms pass.
