Have you ever wondered what you should do if your dog consumes weed? Well, believe it or not, it’s actually more common than you might think. Dogs have a knack for getting into things they shouldn’t, and if marijuana is not stored safely away from their curious noses, it can pose a health risk. So, in the unfortunate event that your furry friend indulges in some weed, here’s what you need to do to ensure their well-being.
Stay Calm and Take Action
First and foremost, don’t panic if your dog eats weed. There are steps you can take to properly care for your pet in this situation. Read on to find out what you should do.
Identify the Type of Marijuana Consumed
To provide the best care for your pet, it’s important to determine what type of marijuana they have ingested. This information will be valuable for the veterinarian treating your furry friend.
Marijuana Buds
If your dog has consumed straight buds, this is more dangerous than eating the leaves of the marijuana plant.
Marijuana Leaves
Oil and butter made from marijuana leaves contain higher levels of THC, making them even more hazardous for your pet. It’s important to note that CBD is not the same as THC. Dogs can safely consume a veterinarian-approved quantity of CBD without any risk. THC is the component in marijuana that poses a danger to our canine companions.
Be Aware of Other Ingredients
If your dog has consumed an edible, it’s crucial to examine the ingredients list or the recipe used to determine any potential hazards in the product.
Many edibles, like pot brownies, contain a significant amount of chocolate. Chocolate is more dangerous for dogs than THC itself. Therefore, if your dog indulges in a pot brownie, they need immediate veterinary care. Other types of edibles may contain Xylitol, a substance that can be fatal to dogs.
Watch for Symptoms of Weed Toxicity
Another important step is to keep a close eye on your dog for any symptoms of weed toxicity. This condition can be severe, so if you notice any of the following signs, seek immediate veterinary care for your pet:
- Loss of coordination
- Inability to control urine
- Vomiting
- Dilated pupils
- Low or high body temperature
- Irregular heart rate
- Depression or hyperesthesia, and in severe cases, seizures
If your dog exhibits an irregular heart rate or starts vomiting excessively, it’s crucial to head to the emergency vet. These are signs that the weed toxicity has worsened, and prompt action is necessary. If your dog experiences a seizure, it is an even more serious emergency.
Visit the Vet
Take your dog to the vet after they consume marijuana, even if it feels embarrassing or uncomfortable. Remember that veterinarians are there to help and will not share this information with law enforcement. Their focus is solely on helping your dog recover from the situation.
All dogs that have ingested marijuana need to have their vitals evaluated by a veterinarian. If your primary veterinarian is unavailable, head to the emergency vet immediately.
Expect Pet Hospitalization in Severe Cases
If your dog exhibits moderate to severe symptoms of weed toxicity or consumes a large quantity of marijuana, they may require hospitalization or monitoring at the vet’s office. They may receive IV fluids and have their heart rate regulated during their stay.
Keep in mind that weed toxicity is typically not fatal, except in cases where a dog consumes an excessive amount of marijuana, chocolate, or even a small amount of Xylitol.
Prevention is Key
Your veterinarian will likely provide instructions on preventing future incidents of marijuana consumption by your dog. They may advise you on how to properly store marijuana and keep your dog away from all forms of it in your home.
By taking the time to store marijuana safely and away from your curious pup, you can help prevent them from eating it in the future.
Trust VEG for Emergency Care
Remember, your dog’s health and well-being should always be your top priority. If your pet accidentally ingests marijuana, it’s crucial to take them to the vet or emergency vet as soon as possible for treatment.
Furthermore, never feed your dog marijuana intentionally. It’s not a joke and can be extremely dangerous for your furry friend. Always strive to be a responsible pet owner and provide them with the safest environment possible.
At Katten TrimSalon, we deeply care about your pet’s health and are prepared to handle any emergency. Our emergency veterinarians are available 24/7 to give your pet the immediate attention they deserve. If your dog eats weed or encounters any other emergency, don’t hesitate to contact our team. We are here to help.
Visit Katten TrimSalon for more information and expert pet care.