Taking care of our pets means being aware of what might be harmful to them, even though it’s not always obvious.
While it’s widely known that chocolate is dangerous for dogs, the effects of cannabis might not be as clear to pet owners.
As cannabis becomes more accessible with legalization across various states, it’s important for dog owners to understand the potential risks associated with exposure to the drug.
Even without direct use, dogs can easily come into contact with cannabis in their environment.
The psychoactive component of cannabis, Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), is what causes the high in humans. However, dogs are much more sensitive to this substance due to having twice the number of cannabinoid receptors, making even a small amount potentially harmful.
Dr. Andrew Jones, a veterinarian, outlines how readily a dog can be affected, sometimes simply by consuming a discarded joint or inhaling smoke.
While humans might experience increased appetite, fatigue, or nausea from cannabis, dogs can face severe health threats.
Symptoms in dogs can include loss of coordination, vomiting, and seizures, which, if not treated, could lead to critical conditions like stroke or even death. Other indicators of THC exposure in dogs are dilated pupils, staggering, shaking, convulsions, and excessive drooling.
Dr. Jones recounted an instance where a small dog suffered adverse effects after ingesting a roach during a walk, exhibiting signs akin to having a stroke.
“That roach that was discarded could easily have 20 milligrams of THC, but that could be easily 30 to 40 times their dose,” he explained on his YouTube channel Veterinary Secrets.
Due to their higher number of cannabinoid receptors, dogs are more affected by even small amounts of cannabis, meaning a dog can experience a much stronger effect compared to a human of similar weight.
This sensitivity necessitates caution when using cannabis around pets, especially smaller ones, as they are more vulnerable to THC’s effects.
Inhalation of smoke can also be dangerous, so it’s crucial to allow your dog to leave the area if you’re using cannabis in a confined space. “[The smoke] can cause potential life-threatening symptoms,” veterinarian Moira Gerlach informed tag24.
If you suspect your dog has ingested THC, whether through environmental exposure or sneaking a cannabis-infused treat, it’s imperative to contact a vet promptly.
Vets can help by inducing vomiting within two hours of ingestion or administering activated charcoal to absorb the substance, alongside IV fluids for stabilization.
It’s also worth noting that controlled, minute doses of medical cannabis can be beneficial for pets, aiding in the management of issues such as nausea, chronic pain, and appetite loss, similar to its uses in human medicine.
However, ensure your pets steer clear of cannabis edibles, not just because of THC, but also due to the harmful effects of chocolate on their health.