As cannabis products become more widely available, many pet owners are finding themselves in situations where their dog ingests THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive compound found in marijuana. While some pet owners may not realize the danger, THC can be toxic to dogs, even in small amounts. If your dog eats THC gummies, here’s what you need to know and do.
Signs Your Dog Has Ingested THC
If your dog consumes THC-infused gummies, it may show symptoms within 30 minutes to an hour. Some common signs of THC poisoning in dogs include:
- Disorientation or difficulty walking
- Drooling or excessive salivation
- Dilated pupils
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Increased heart rate
- Lethargy or excessive sleepiness
In severe cases, dogs may experience tremors, seizures, or even coma. If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to act quickly.
What to Do if Your Dog Eats THC Gummies
- Call Your Veterinarian Immediately
The first step is to contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital right away. Be ready to provide information about the amount of THC your dog may have ingested, as well as the type of product (e.g., gummy, edible, etc.). If possible, bring the product packaging to your vet to help them understand the potential risks. - Don’t Wait for Symptoms to Appear
Even if your dog is not showing symptoms yet, it’s important not to wait. THC can take time to affect your dog, and the sooner you get professional advice, the better. - Follow Your Vet’s Instructions
Your veterinarian may suggest bringing your dog in for monitoring or treatment, which could include inducing vomiting or administering activated charcoal to limit THC absorption. Depending on the situation, your vet might also recommend intravenous fluids or other supportive care.
Preventing THC Ingestion in the Future
To avoid future incidents, always keep cannabis edibles, including THC gummies, out of reach of pets. Store these products in secure containers, and make sure guests are aware of the potential dangers. Educating your family and friends about the risks of marijuana edibles for pets can help prevent accidental poisoning.
Learn More About THC Toxicity in Pets
If you’re looking for more information on how THC affects pets, or if you want to understand what to do in a poisoning situation, here are some helpful resources:
- American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)
The AVMA provides insights on the potential effects of marijuana and other cannabis products on pets. They offer guidance for veterinarians and pet owners on how to manage cases of poisoning.
Visit: www.avma.org - DVM360
This resource offers expert advice on pet health and safety, including topics like THC toxicity in pets and how to manage the situation when a pet ingests marijuana products.
Visit: www.dvm360.com - Pet Poison Helpline
If you suspect your pet has ingested a harmful substance, Pet Poison Helpline is a 24/7 service for emergency poison information. They offer immediate advice on how to treat pets exposed to toxins like THC.
Visit: www.petpoisonhelpline.com
While dogs and THC don’t mix, quick action can help your dog recover with minimal issues. Always contact your veterinarian as soon as possible if you suspect your dog has ingested THC.