Can dogs get high from marijuana?

In these quiet nights, when the world falls silent, I sometimes light a Pipe and treat yourself to this unique ritual.

The smoke rises slowly, accompanied by a deep inhalation and subsequent slow exhalation, as if letting go of the tiredness and worries of the day in one fell swoop.

But it was at this point that I noticed my dog’s curious and loving look.

Every time I look at it, I get goosebumps all over my heart.

I sometimes wonder if it would be as excited if I blew marijuana smoke in its face.

If you share my opinion, please stop this behavior immediately.

While it can be a remarkable medicinal plant for humans, the cannabis plant can be dangerous and even toxic to dogs.

Do dogs get high?

Instead of getting high, dogs experience side effects that range from mild to very severe.

You won't get high like humans do when you ingest or inhale marijuana, but you will experience other effects caused by THC, and that is not pleasant.

They typically suffer from ataxia, a form of clumsiness and loss of movement control, their pupils dilate and they may experience tremors and even seizures.

In addition, dogs do not simply consume the recommended amount of marijuana as a human would.

When they come across something edible, they eat as much of it as they can, which only worsens the negative effects.

If a bag of marijuana is within reach of a dog, he will eat the entire contents without batting an eyelid because he likes the taste of the plant itself.

Therefore, having marijuana and THC products lying around at home can have dire consequences.

In the worst cases, dogs can fall into a coma and possibly die from ingesting excessive amounts of marijuana. Since they don't follow the directions listed on the product, there's a good chance they'll ingest excessive amounts.

Although marijuana is becoming more widely accepted and accepted for both medical and recreational purposes, it is important to know that dogs do not receive the same benefits from it as humans.

The effects of THC on dogs are more related to anxiety and panic than to relaxation and healing.

What effects does passive smoking have on dogs?

Passive smoking is not only dangerous for humans, but also for pets.

Living in a home with a smoker puts dogs, cats and especially birds at higher risk of many health problems.

Dogs exposed to secondhand smoke are more likely to suffer from eye infections, allergies and respiratory diseases, including lung cancer.

This is understandable considering that a dog’s sense of smell is much better than that of humans.

Interestingly, there is a connection between the length of a dog's nose and the type of cancer caused by inhaling secondhand smoke.

Dogs with long noses are prone to nasal cancer, while dogs with short noses often develop lung cancer.

In dogs with long noses (Collies, Labradors, Dobermans, etc.) the surface area of ​​the nasal passages is enlarged, causing inhaled particles to get trapped.

The toxins and carcinogens in tobacco smoke accumulate in nasal mucus, putting long-nosed dogs at higher risk for tumors in their long snouts.

In long-nosed dogs living in smoke-rich environments, the incidence of nasal tumors is 250% higher.

Short noses are not effective “traps” and allow more inhaled particles and carcinogens to enter the lungs.

This is why short-nosed dogs (Pug, Shih Tzu, Pekingese, etc.) are more likely to develop lung cancer than their long-nosed friends.

Also read: Can an e-cigarette cause passive smoking?

What are the symptoms of marijuana poisoning in dogs?

Your dog may have THC poisoning if he:

• Stumbling and walking over feet as if they were “drunk”
• Look dull and lethargic, but try to keep their balance in fear when they start to fall over
• Have dilated pupils
• Uncontrolled peeing
• Vomiting
• Trembling and shaking
• Are excited
• Are very sensitive to noise and touch
• Do you have an unusually low heart rate

In some cases, a very severe reaction may cause your dog to fall into a coma.

It usually takes 30-60 minutes for your dog to feel the effects after eating marijuana.

If they inhale it, it may happen sooner.

Depending on the weight and sensitivity of the dog as well as the amount of cannabis consumed, the symptoms of poisoning can be mild to severe.

Some dogs may exhibit hyperactivity and restlessness, while others may become lethargic as if they were sedated.

Due to nausea, drooling and/or vomiting may occur.

The high and other effects usually last 18 to 24 hours in dogs.

Because THC is so toxic to dogs, they can't just sleep it off.

If you notice these symptoms, call your veterinarian immediately.

What can I do if I suspect you have taken marijuana or THC products?

If you even suspect that your dog has become high, for example by eating food that you accidentally left near the ground, you should take your beloved dog to the vet immediately.

Don’t wait for the signs mentioned above.

You may be afraid of being judged, but be honest with your veterinarian.

Lying about the incident with your dog can delay appropriate treatment and be fatal if treatment is not given in a timely manner.

A veterinarian can induce vomiting in dogs who have consumed marijuana or edibles within the last 30 minutes, reducing the risk of further side effects.

If more than 30 minutes have passed, your dog has probably absorbed most of the THC and treatment options are limited to supportive measures, such as administering intravenous therapy.

Your veterinarian will also take every possible measure to prevent your dog from becoming seriously ill and to ensure that he is well and comfortable while symptoms subside.

THC VS. CBD for Dogs

The main difference between THC and CBD in relation to pets is that products containing THC are not recommended for pets.

Pets that consume THC may experience balance problems, slow heartbeat, incontinence, dilated pupils, and low body temperature.

When consuming higher concentrations of THC, symptoms can be more severe and may include seizures and aspiration.

Pets are at risk of the powerful effects of THC because THC is a psychoactive compound, whereas CBD is not.

Unlike THC, CBD is widely accepted in the pet community as a useful tool to support wellness.

CBD products developed by veterinarians and designed specifically for pets should not cause any of the common negative experiences associated with THC when administered in the correct amounts.

Instead, CBD pet products can help your pet maintain an active lifestyle, maintain a regular sleep schedule, and feel comfortable.

However, there is no scientific data to support its use and benefits in the long term.

And the production and distribution of CBD oil is not well regulated.

Therefore, certain CBD products may contain small amounts of THC.

This could be dangerous.

Ask your veterinarian if CBD oil is right for your dog and make sure you have the right kind.

But also note that in many states, veterinarians are not legally allowed to even talk to you about CBD oil.

Laws change, so you need to check again.

Keep all cannabis products safe and out of reach of pets

Treat your marijuana the same way you would treat a prescription drug or alcohol.

Keep it out of reach of pets (and children!) and keep a close eye on the amount you have so you know if anything is missing.

Never smoke weed in an enclosed space when your pet is nearby.

If your dog gets hold of the green stuff, try to make him vomit immediately.

And if you need to call a vet, tell him honestly what is wrong with your dog.

Your veterinarian will not judge you. He is only interested in maintaining your pet's health.

Diploma

If your pet has come into contact with any form of marijuana, such as smoke, oil, resin or leaves, it is important to seek professional veterinary care as soon as possible.

Many pet owners believe that CBD has no harmful effects on their pets, but in fact CBD also contains small amounts of THC, which can cause adverse reactions.