Does your dog like to get high?

Cannabis has gained widespread acceptance and use over the years, but it’s not just humans who are part of this trend. Many pet owners give their furry friends cannabis-based products. While the potential benefits of cannabis for treating certain pet diseases are being explored, it is important to note that cannabis intoxication in dogs is a serious problem.

Since dogs have a more pronounced and complicated reaction to the plant’s psychoactive component, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), this can result in various symptoms that can be dangerous and even life-threatening.

A new study from Canada has found a staggering increase in cases of cannabis poisoning in pets, especially dogs, since 2018. Although most of the reported cases were classified as mild, the study, published April 20 in PLoS One, highlighted some deaths caused by marijuana use.

The main reason for the euphoric or “high” feeling people experience when consuming cannabis is the psychoactive component THC. However, the same ingredient also causes toxicosis and poisons pets that take the drug in any form.

The increase in reported cases of cannabis poisoning appears to be related to the legalization of marijuana in Canada. However, it’s uncertain whether the increase in numbers is due to increased prevalence or better reporting, says Jibran Khokhar, Ph.D., an assistant professor at the University of Guelph’s Ontario Veterinary College and one of the study’s authors.

About 37 states and four U.S. territories have legalized marijuana for medical use, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL). In comparison, 18 states and two territories have legalized recreational use of the drug.

A higher percentage of cannabis poisoning in dogs is associated with dried cannabis and edibles

In a recent study, researchers surveyed 251 veterinarians in Canada and the United States and analyzed 2021 data to estimate the occurrence and impact of marijuana toxicosis. Of the 283 reported cases, 226 (80%) involved dogs suffering from poisoning.

The report’s authors found that most poisonings occurred when pets consumed cannabis edibles in the absence of their owners. dr Khokhar added that pets used cannabis through other oral means, such as B. discarded joints, human feces, cannabis-infused butter or oil, and even compost.

The American Kennel Club has warned that all parts of the marijuana plant, including the seeds, leaves, stems, and flowers, are poisonous to dogs.

according to dr Khokhar, most of the recorded cases of poisoning were mild, requiring only ambulatory observation and first aid. While a handful of pets died from cannabis poisoning, the authors acknowledged that underlying medical conditions may have contributed. These conclusions are consistent with similar findings from previous research and entities. For example, the Animal Poisoning Control Center reported a 765% increase in calls related to pets using marijuana in 2019 compared to the same period last year.

As the popularity of cannabis-based products continues to increase, the study authors emphasize the need for more research into the drug’s effects on pets. The aim is to support veterinary operations, establish regulations and protocols and protect the health of pets.

dr Khokhar suggests that “pet-safe packaging and increased precautions to limit access” would be beneficial. Additionally, the general public needs to be educated on the likely symptoms pets may experience after ingesting marijuana.

Symptoms of cannabis poisoning in dogs

If you suspect your furry friend has unintentionally used marijuana in some form, the American Kennel Club has listed some signs and symptoms. These include stumbling, uncoordinated movements, slow reflexes, crossing your feet, dilated pupils, vomiting, urinary incontinence, tremors or tremors, and restlessness.

Symptoms usually appear within half an hour of ingestion, although onset can be quicker when cannabis is consumed through smoke inhalation. Although severe cases are rare, it is recommended that you contact your veterinarian if you suspect your pet has ingested marijuana.

dr Stacy Meola, a critic at Colorado’s Wheat Ridge Animal Hospital, sheds light on the most common symptoms of cannabis poisoning in dogs. “The most common sign is stumbling and walking like they’re drunk (ataxic),” she says. The study found that about 88% of the dogs showed this symptom. In addition, approximately 50% of the canines appeared listless and dull with dilated pupils and responded with a recoil to quick movements aimed at their faces.

dr Meola also notes that the most intriguing symptom in dogs is urinary incontinence. The study showed that nearly half of the dogs studied leaked urine uncontrollably when under the influence of marijuana. If 50% of people had urine leakage after using marijuana, I don’t think the drug would be as popular, she adds.

Treatment of dogs with marijuana toxicosis

The treatment plan for dogs suffering from marijuana poisoning will vary depending on the severity of the symptoms. While some pets can be treated at home as an outpatient, others may require hospitalization for IV fluids and supportive care. In severe cases, intralipid therapy is recommended to bind the marijuana and speed up its elimination from the body.

dr However, Meola explains that with proper care, most dogs will make a full recovery within a day or two.

The importance of seeking veterinary help

While marijuana toxicity isn’t usually fatal, combining the drug with chocolate or artificial sweeteners like xylitol can cause harm, according to Dr. Meola can be dangerous for dogs. This is often seen in brownies or cookies that contain marijuana and these toxic ingredients. Additionally, medicinal marijuana butter products, commonly used in baking, can increase the risk of more severe symptoms in dogs. Pet owners need to be aware of the potential risks and take proper precautions to protect their pets.

Regardless of how your dog comes into contact with marijuana, it’s always a good idea to seek veterinary advice, says Dr. meola Marijuana potency varies and the amount of edibles is not regulated, making it difficult to determine how much your dog has ingested. Additionally, there is no known toxic or lethal dose for inhaled or ingested marijuana, so your pet must be evaluated by a professional.

Diploma

Canine cannabis poisoning is a serious problem that pet owners should be aware of. With the increasing legalization of marijuana in various states, it is important to be vigilant and prevent dogs from accessing these products. Symptoms of cannabis toxicosis can vary from mild to severe and prompt veterinary care is vital in all cases.

Pet-safe packaging, greater care to restrict access, and public awareness campaigns are needed to prevent accidental ingestion of cannabis by pets. With proper treatment, most dogs make a full recovery. Still, it’s always best to play it safe and seek veterinary advice whenever marijuana ingestion is suspected.

The dog ate your grass, read more…

WHAT TO DO IF YOUR DOG EATS WEED READ THIS FIRST!