Marijuana, also known as cannabis or weed, is becoming increasingly popular among humans for both recreational and medicinal purposes. However, as more people use it, more incidents of pets getting access to marijuana are being reported. Dogs, in particular, are more susceptible to the harmful effects of marijuana due to their small size and sensitivity to the drug. In this article, we will explore whether dogs can overdose on marijuana and what you should do if your dog gets stoned.
Table of Contents
- What is marijuana?
- How does marijuana affect dogs?
- Can dogs overdose on marijuana?
- Symptoms of marijuana toxicity in dogs
- What to do if your dog is stoned
- How to prevent marijuana toxicity in dogs
- Can dogs use marijuana for medical purposes?
- Is CBD oil safe for dogs?
- Risks of giving marijuana to dogs
- Marijuana toxicity vs. other poisoning in dogs
- Myths about dogs and marijuana
- Conclusion
- FAQs
What is marijuana?
Marijuana is a plant that contains over 100 compounds known as cannabinoids. The most commonly known cannabinoid is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is responsible for the psychoactive effects of marijuana. THC is what makes humans feel “high” when they use marijuana.
How does marijuana affect dogs?
Marijuana affects dogs differently than it does humans. Dogs have a higher concentration of cannabinoid receptors in their brains and other organs, which makes them more susceptible to the effects of marijuana. When dogs ingest marijuana, the THC binds to these receptors, causing a variety of symptoms.
Can dogs overdose on marijuana?
Yes, dogs can overdose on marijuana. THC is toxic to dogs, and the amount of THC required to cause toxicity is much lower than it is for humans. Dogs can easily ingest too much THC by eating edibles or inhaling second-hand smoke.
Symptoms of marijuana toxicity in dogs
Symptoms of marijuana toxicity in dogs can vary depending on the amount of THC ingested and the size of the dog. Common symptoms include:
- Lethargy
- Ataxia (loss of coordination)
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Excessive drooling
- Dilated pupils
- Increased heart rate
- Low blood pressure
- Tremors
- Seizures
- Coma
What to do if your dog is stoned
If you suspect that your dog has ingested marijuana and is showing symptoms of toxicity, you should seek veterinary care immediately. Your veterinarian may induce vomiting to remove any remaining marijuana from your dog’s stomach or administer activated charcoal to prevent further absorption of THC. Supportive care, including intravenous fluids and medications to control vomiting and seizures, may also be necessary.
How to prevent marijuana toxicity in dogs
The best way to prevent marijuana toxicity in dogs is to keep all marijuana products out of reach. This includes edibles, oils, and even the plant itself. If you use marijuana, make sure to store it in a secure location where your dog cannot access it. If you have guests over who use marijuana, make sure that they keep their products out of reach of your dog as well.
Can dogs use marijuana for medical purposes?
While there is some evidence that marijuana may be beneficial for dogs with certain medical conditions, such as seizures and anxiety, there are currently no FDA-approved marijuana products for dogs. Giving your dog marijuana products without the guidance of a veterinarian can be dangerous and potentially deadly.
Is CBD oil safe for dogs?
CBD oil, which is derived from hemp and contains little to no THC, is generally considered safe for dogs. However, you should always consult with your veterinarian before giving your dog any new supplement, including CBD
Risks of giving marijuana to dogs
Giving marijuana products to dogs can be risky and potentially deadly. THC is toxic to dogs and can cause serious health problems, such as seizures and coma. In addition, the effects of marijuana can be unpredictable in dogs, and there is no way to accurately dose them. Marijuana can also interact with other medications that your dog may be taking, which can be dangerous.
Marijuana toxicity vs. other poisoning in dogs
Marijuana toxicity is just one type of poisoning that can affect dogs. Other common poisons that dogs may ingest include chocolate, xylitol, grapes, and certain types of plants. It’s important to know the symptoms of different types of poisoning so that you can seek veterinary care immediately if you suspect that your dog has ingested a toxic substance.
Myths about dogs and marijuana
There are several myths about dogs and marijuana that are not true. For example, some people believe that dogs cannot get high from marijuana, but this is not the case. Dogs can become intoxicated from marijuana just like humans can. Additionally, some people believe that giving marijuana to their dogs will help them calm down or sleep better, but this is not supported by scientific evidence.
Conclusion
Marijuana toxicity can be a serious problem for dogs, and it’s important to take steps to prevent it from happening. If you suspect that your dog has ingested marijuana and is showing symptoms of toxicity, seek veterinary care immediately. Always keep marijuana products out of reach of your dog, and never give your dog any marijuana products without the guidance of a veterinarian.
FAQs
- Can dogs die from marijuana toxicity?
- Yes, in severe cases, marijuana toxicity can be fatal for dogs.
- How long does it take for marijuana to affect a dog?
- The effects of marijuana on dogs can be seen within 30 minutes to 2 hours after ingestion.
- Can dogs get high from second-hand marijuana smoke?
- Yes, dogs can become intoxicated from inhaling second-hand marijuana smoke.
- What should I do if my dog eats an edible containing marijuana?
- Seek veterinary care immediately. Your veterinarian may induce vomiting or administer activated charcoal to prevent further absorption of THC.
- Is it safe to give my dog CBD oil?
- CBD oil, which contains little to no THC, is generally considered safe for dogs. However, you should always consult with your veterinarian before giving your dog any new supplement.