Yikes! My Dog Accidentally Ate Weed. What Should I Do Now?

Posted by By Mukesh Pathak 11 Min Read
Hungry brown dog with empty bowl waiting for feeding, looking at camera, top view

Introduction

The growing acceptance and legalization of marijuana for medical and recreational use have made cannabis products more common in homes. While this is good news for people who benefit from its use, it poses a potential danger to our furry friends. Dogs are naturally curious creatures and can accidentally ingest marijuana in various forms, leading to serious health issues. If your dog has accidentally eaten weed, it’s important to act quickly. This guide will cover the symptoms of marijuana poisoning, what steps to take immediately, and how to prevent future incidents.

1. Why is Marijuana Dangerous for Dogs?

Marijuana contains compounds called cannabinoids, with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) being the most psychoactive one. Unlike humans, dogs are much more sensitive to THC, even in small amounts. THC affects a dog’s central nervous system, leading to a range of symptoms that can be mild to severe.

A. Understanding THC and Dogs

  1. Sensitivity to THC: Dogs have more cannabinoid receptors in their brains than humans, making them more susceptible to the effects of THC.
  2. Forms of Marijuana: Dogs can be exposed to THC through dried marijuana leaves, edibles (like cookies, brownies, or gummies), oils, and second-hand smoke.
  3. Edibles and Other Products: Edibles often contain higher concentrations of THC and may also include other ingredients toxic to dogs, such as chocolate, xylitol, or raisins.

B. Other Harmful Ingredients

  1. Chocolate: Common in edibles, chocolate is toxic to dogs and can cause additional symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and heart issues.
  2. Xylitol: This artificial sweetener, often found in gummies or other sweets, can cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and liver failure in dogs.
  3. Raisins: Another common ingredient in baked goods, raisins are toxic and can cause kidney failure.

2. Symptoms of Marijuana Poisoning in Dogs

Symptoms of marijuana poisoning in dogs can vary based on the amount consumed, the size of the dog, and the form of marijuana ingested. Symptoms typically appear within 30 minutes to a few hours after ingestion.

A. Mild to Moderate Symptoms

  1. Lethargy: Dogs may become unusually tired or sleepy, appearing sedated.
  2. Dilated Pupils: One of the more noticeable signs is dilated pupils, indicating a change in vision or brain function.
  3. Uncoordinated Movements (Ataxia): Dogs may have trouble walking straight, often stumbling or staggering.
  4. Drooling: Excessive salivation is a common response to nausea or neurological effects.
  5. Hypersensitivity to Sound and Touch: Dogs may overreact to normal stimuli, becoming jumpy or anxious.
  6. Low Blood Pressure and Heart Rate: Some dogs may experience a drop in blood pressure and heart rate, leading to weakness and fainting.

B. Severe Symptoms

  1. Vomiting: The body’s natural response to eliminate toxins, frequent vomiting can lead to dehydration.
  2. Tremors and Shaking: Dogs may develop muscle tremors or shaking due to neurological disturbances.
  3. Seizures: In severe cases, high levels of THC can trigger seizures, which are life-threatening if not managed.
  4. Coma: Extreme cases of marijuana poisoning can result in a coma, indicating severe neurological impairment.
  5. Death: Although rare, death can occur, especially in small dogs or those with underlying health conditions.

C. Delayed Effects

  1. Long Half-Life: THC is stored in fat cells and can have a long half-life, leading to prolonged symptoms that may last for days.
  2. Biphasic Effects: Dogs might seem to recover and then exhibit symptoms again due to the biphasic nature of THC, which means effects can recur after initial metabolization.

3. What to Do Immediately if Your Dog Eats Weed

If you suspect or know that your dog has ingested marijuana, taking quick action is essential. Early intervention can prevent serious complications and increase the chances of a full recovery.

A. Assess the Situation

  1. Determine the Amount and Type of Marijuana: Try to estimate how much your dog has ingested and in what form (edibles, raw leaves, oil, etc.).
  2. Check for Additional Ingredients: If the marijuana was in an edible form, check for other harmful ingredients like chocolate or xylitol.

B. Contact a Veterinarian

  1. Call Your Veterinarian Immediately: Provide details about the incident, including the amount of marijuana, the form it was in, and the size of your dog.
  2. Animal Poison Control Hotline: You can also call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (1-888-426-4435) for guidance.
  3. Prepare for a Veterinary Visit: Be ready to take your dog to the vet if instructed, as they may need professional care.

C. Do Not Induce Vomiting

  1. Risk of Aspiration: Inducing vomiting can be dangerous in dogs showing neurological symptoms (like seizures or ataxia) as it increases the risk of aspiration (inhaling vomit into the lungs).
  2. Vet’s Instructions: Only induce vomiting if explicitly directed by a vet. They may recommend administering activated charcoal to bind the THC and reduce absorption.

4. Veterinary Treatment for Marijuana Poisoning

The type of treatment your dog will receive depends on the severity of the symptoms and the amount of marijuana ingested.

A. Initial Examination

  1. Physical Examination: The vet will check your dog’s heart rate, blood pressure, and neurological status.
  2. Blood Tests: Tests may be conducted to assess your dog’s overall health and detect any other toxins.

B. Activated Charcoal

  1. Prevent Absorption: Activated charcoal is commonly administered to bind the THC in the stomach and intestines, preventing further absorption.
  2. Re-administering: In some cases, multiple doses of activated charcoal may be given, especially if large amounts were ingested.

C. IV Fluids and Supportive Care

  1. Hydration: IV fluids help maintain hydration, support kidney function, and aid in flushing out toxins.
  2. Monitoring: Dogs are often kept under observation to monitor heart rate, breathing, and neurological function.

D. Medications

  1. Anti-Seizure Medication: If seizures occur, the vet may administer medications to control them.
  2. Sedatives: Mild sedatives may be used to calm anxious dogs and help with rest and recovery.

E. Observation and Monitoring

  1. Hospitalization: Dogs with severe symptoms may require overnight hospitalization for continuous monitoring.
  2. Follow-Up: After stabilization, follow-up visits may be necessary to ensure there are no long-term effects.

5. Prevention: How to Keep Your Dog Safe from Marijuana

Prevention is the best approach to keeping your dog safe from marijuana poisoning. Here are some practical steps to avoid accidental ingestion:

A. Store Marijuana Products Safely

  1. High, Secure Storage: Keep all marijuana products, including edibles, out of reach in high cabinets or locked drawers.
  2. Child-Proof Containers: Use containers that are not easily opened by pets.

B. Be Mindful of Edibles

  1. Avoid Leaving Edibles Out: Never leave edibles unattended, as dogs can be quick to snatch them up.
  2. Safe Disposal: Dispose of any cannabis waste or packaging securely to prevent access.

C. Educate Household Members

  1. Inform Everyone: Make sure everyone in the household, including guests, knows to keep marijuana products away from pets.
  2. Pet-Safe Zones: Designate areas where marijuana is not allowed, especially if your dog has access.

D. Second-Hand Smoke Awareness

  1. No Smoking Near Pets: Avoid smoking marijuana around your pets, as second-hand smoke can affect them.
  2. Ventilate the Area: If you do smoke, make sure the area is well-ventilated and your dog is not in the room.

E. Training and Supervision

  1. Training: Train your dog to obey commands like “leave it” to avoid picking up harmful items.
  2. Supervision: Always supervise your dog, especially in environments where marijuana products might be present.

6. Common Myths About Dogs and Marijuana

Despite growing awareness, there are still misconceptions about the effects of marijuana on dogs. Let’s debunk some common myths:

A. “It’s Natural, So It’s Safe”

  1. Natural Doesn’t Mean Safe: Just because marijuana is a natural plant doesn’t mean it’s safe for pets. Many natural substances are toxic to animals.
  2. Dogs are Different: Dogs metabolize substances differently than humans and can’t handle THC the way we can.

B. “A Little Won’t Hurt”

  1. No Safe Amount: Even small amounts of marijuana can cause serious symptoms, especially in small dogs or puppies.
  2. Unpredictable Effects: The concentration of THC varies in different marijuana products, making it hard to gauge the effect on dogs.

C. “If My Dog Eats Weed, They’ll Just Get the Munchies”

  1. Serious Health Risks: Unlike humans, dogs don’t just experience “the munchies.” They can suffer from severe neurological and cardiovascular effects.
  2. Medical Emergency: Ingesting weed is a medical emergency for dogs, not a casual experience.

Conclusion

If your dog accidentally eats weed, it’s essential to stay calm and act quickly. Recognizing the symptoms of marijuana poisoning, contacting a veterinarian immediately, and following the recommended steps can help ensure your dog’s safety and recovery. Prevention is key, so be mindful of how you store and handle marijuana products in your home. By taking these precautions, you can protect your furry friend from the potentially dangerous effects of marijuana.

Final Thoughts

Marijuana may be a part of many people’s lives, but it’s important to remember that it poses a significant risk to our pets. By staying informed and taking proactive steps, you can keep your dog safe and healthy. Always be vigilant, and if an incident occurs, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Your quick action can make all the difference in your dog’s health and well-being.