What Happens If Dogs Eat Weed

What Happens If Dogs Eat Weed?

Dogs are known for their love of food, and sometimes they can get into things they shouldn’t. One of those things is marijuana, which can have serious consequences for your furry friend. But what exactly happens if dogs eat weed? Let’s take a closer look.

First and foremost, it’s important to understand that dogs are much more sensitive to the effects of THC (the psychoactive compound in marijuana) than humans. This means that even small amounts can cause serious problems. In fact, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), marijuana toxicity is one of the most common reasons for pet poisoning.

So, what are some of the symptoms you might see if your dog eats weed? Here are a few:

1. Lethargy – Your dog may seem unusually tired or sluggish, and may have trouble standing or walking.

2. Loss of coordination – You may notice that your dog has trouble with balance or seems unsteady on their feet.

3. Dilated pupils – Your dog’s eyes may appear larger than usual, and they may not respond as quickly to light.

4. Increased heart rate – Marijuana can cause your dog’s heart rate to speed up, which can be dangerous in some cases.

5. Vomiting – Your dog may experience nausea and vomiting after ingesting marijuana.

6. Incontinence – Some dogs may lose control of their bladder or bowels after eating weed.

7. Seizures – In severe cases, marijuana toxicity can lead to seizures, which can be life-threatening.

It’s worth noting that the severity of these symptoms can vary depending on how much marijuana your dog ate and how long ago they ingested it. If you suspect that your dog has eaten weed (or any other toxic substance), it’s important to seek veterinary care immediately.

But why is marijuana toxic to dogs in the first place? The answer lies in the way that THC interacts with their bodies. Dogs have a much higher concentration of cannabinoid receptors in their brain than humans do, which makes them more susceptible to the effects of THC. In addition, their liver metabolizes THC differently than ours does, which can lead to a buildup of toxic byproducts.

So, what should you do if your dog eats weed? Here are some steps to follow:

1. Stay calm – It can be scary to see your dog experiencing symptoms of marijuana toxicity, but it’s important to stay calm and focused.

2. Call your vet – Contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital right away. They may recommend bringing your dog in for treatment or monitoring at home.

3. Provide information – Be prepared to provide information about how much marijuana your dog ingested, when they ate it, and any symptoms you’ve observed.

4. Follow instructions – Your vet will give you specific instructions for how to care for your dog. This may include inducing vomiting, administering activated charcoal, or providing supportive care like IV fluids.

In conclusion, while it may seem amusing or harmless to let your dog indulge in a little bit of weed (or any other “people food”), the reality is that it can have serious consequences. If you suspect that your dog has eaten marijuana (or anything else they shouldn’t), don’t hesitate to seek veterinary care immediately. With prompt treatment, most dogs make a full recovery from marijuana toxicity. Just remember: when it comes to our furry friends, prevention is always better than cure!