If you think your dog has eaten marijuana, edibles, or other THC-containing products, act quickly. Marijuana poisoning can be scary, but with the right information and immediate action, you can help your pet recover.
This guide provides clear steps on what to do in an emergency, along with information on marijuana poisoning in dogs (also known as THC poisoning in dogs) symptoms, treatment options, and prevention tips.
Symptoms of Marijuana Poisoning in Dogs
Look out for these signs after your dog might have ingested marijuana:
Lethargy or drowsiness
Lack of coordination, wobbly walking
Loss of bladder control or dribbling urine
Excessive drooling
Dilated pupils
Vomiting (may not occur in all cases)
Tremors
Seizures (in severe cases)
What to Do if Your Dog Eats Marijuana
Call your veterinarian or animal poison control immediately. Do not wait for symptoms to appear. The sooner your dog receives treatment, the better the outcome.
Stay calm and gather information. If possible, try to determine what type of marijuana product your dog ingested (flower, edible, etc.) and the estimated amount consumed. This information will be helpful for your veterinarian.
Do not induce vomiting yourself. This can be dangerous and make your dog sicker. Leave treatment to a professional.
How Long Does it Take a Dog to Digest Marijuana?
The effects of marijuana ingestion in dogs can last for several days because THC is stored in fat cells. Fatalities are more common when cannabis is consumed with other toxic substances like xylitol, chocolate, or raisins. With proper veterinary care, most dogs recover within 24-36 hours, though some cases may take up to 72 hours.
Will My Dog Survive Edibles?
Fortunately, dog ate weed poisoning is rarely fatal with proper treatment. There's no specific antidote for cannabis poisoning, but supportive care from your veterinarian can significantly improve your dog's outcome. This may include:
Monitoring vital signs like body temperature and heart rate
Administering intravenous (IV) fluids to maintain hydration
Providing medication to control tremors or seizures
Expert Insights From Spot
According to Spot's data, we've received over 73 claims for marijuana/THC toxicity in dogs, with an average treatment cost of $549.09. This is especially a concern for younger dogs as they tend to be more curious and mouth whatever they find.
Preventing Marijuana Poisoning in Dogs
The best way to keep your dog safe is to prevent them from eating marijuana. Here are some tips:
Keep all marijuana products securely out of reach, including edibles, which can be especially tempting to dogs.
Train your dog with commands like "leave it" or "drop it" to discourage them from picking up unknown objects.
Secure your marijuana with child-resistant containers and store them in locked cabinets or high shelves.
Be mindful during walks and outings. Keep your dog on a leash and away from areas where they might encounter discarded marijuana products.
Key Takeaways
If you suspect your dog has ingested marijuana, don't panic. Take immediate action by contacting your veterinarian or animal poison control. By recognizing the symptoms, knowing what to do in an emergency, and implementing preventative measures, you can help your dog recover quickly and avoid future incidents.
