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Marijuana Poisoning in Dogs By Gemma Johnstone | Published: Apr 10, 2023 ©ROS - stock.adobe.com
Marijuana Poisoning in Dogs: Cannabis Intoxication in Pets
Symptoms of Marijuana Poisoning in Dogs • Stumbling and crossing over feet • Dull and lethargic • Dilated pupils • Urinary incontinence • Vomiting • Tremors and shaking • Agitation Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the potent psychoactive substance in marijuana, and dogs have a much more severe reaction to this than humans. Symptoms are typically visible within 30 minutes to an hour after ingestion of the drug, or sooner if inhaled. Dr. Stacy Meola is a criticalist at Wheat Ridge Animal Hospital in Colorado and was also one of the lead veterinarians involved in the previously-mentioned study. She explains that “the most common sign is stumbling and crossing over their feet, and walking like they are drunk (ataxic).” In the study, 88% of the dogs presented with this symptom. Around 50% of dogs will also likely appear dull and lethargic with dilated pupils, and will flinch in reaction to fast movements toward their face.
number of calls they took about marijuana- related incidents over a six-year period.
The number of cases of marijuana intoxication in dogs has risen dramatically in recent decades. Fortunately, it’s rarely fatal, but it can bring about some worrying symptoms, and you should always seek veterinary advice if you suspect your dog has ingested this drug. Why Has There Been Such a Drastic Rise in Reported Cases? In 1996, California became the first state to legalize cannabis use for medicinal purposes. Marijuana is now only prohibited in a few states, and an increasing number also allow its use for recreational purposes. As a result of the drug’s increased accessibility, there has been a significant increase in the reports of dogs suffering from marijuana toxicosis. The Animal Poison Control Center, for example, reported a staggering 765% increase in calls about pets ingesting marijuana in 2019, compared with the same period the previous year. The Pet Poison Helpline also saw an increase of more than 400% in the
The increase in reported cases even prompted a retrospective clinical study that evaluated the trends of marijuana toxicosis in dogs living in a state with legalized medical marijuana usage between 2005 and 2010. There was a concerning four-fold increase in the number of cases reported to the two Colorado veterinary hospitals that were the focus of the study. Marijuana Toxicity Exposure There has been a much higher incidence of dogs suffering from marijuana toxicosis than cats. This is because users often mix the drug into palatable baked goods, which is a particular problem if a dog is a renowned counter surfer. However, your dog can also suffer poisoning from eating any part of the actual plant (including the leaves, seeds, stems, and flowers), from smoke inhalation, consuming hashish oil, or even from eating the feces of an individual that has ingested cannabis.
“The most interesting sign in dogs is urinary
Missouri Pet Breeders Association | Page 48
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