If your dog eats weed (marijuana), you should take the following steps immediately:
Recognize Symptoms of Marijuana Toxicity in Dogs
Signs usually appear within 30 to 90 minutes after ingestion and can last hours to days. Watch for:
- Lethargy or extreme sleepiness
- Dilated pupils
- Wobbling, loss of balance, or difficulty walking
- Dribbling urine or urinary incontinence
- Vomiting or excessive drooling
- Tremors or seizures in severe cases
- Sensitivity to sound, light, or touch
- Disorientation or confusion
- Slow heart rate or changes in body temperature
What to Do Immediately
- Contact your veterinarian or an emergency vet immediately. Provide details such as your dog's weight, the type and amount of marijuana ingested, and if edibles were involved (since edibles may contain other toxic ingredients like chocolate or xylitol)
- Do not induce vomiting yourself unless explicitly instructed by a veterinarian, as this can sometimes worsen symptoms
- Keep your dog in a quiet, warm, and safe environment to reduce sensory stimuli and monitor their condition closely
Veterinary Treatment
- The vet may induce vomiting if ingestion was recent (within 1-2 hours).
- Activated charcoal might be administered to absorb toxins.
- Intravenous fluids can help flush toxins and maintain hydration.
- Supportive care may include monitoring vital signs, controlling seizures or anxiety, and temperature regulation
Important Considerations
- Marijuana itself is rarely fatal to dogs, but ingestion of edibles containing other toxic substances can be life-threatening.
- Be honest with your vet about the ingestion to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.
- Early veterinary care improves outcomes and reduces risk of severe complications like seizures or coma
Prevention
- Store marijuana and THC-containing products securely out of your pet’s reach to prevent accidental ingestion
In summary, if your dog eats weed, call your vet immediately, monitor your dog closely, avoid home remedies like inducing vomiting without professional advice, and get veterinary care as soon as possible to ensure the best outcome.
