Can Dogs Get High from Marijuana? A Guide for Pet Owners

With the legalization of marijuana in nearly half of the United States, cannabis use for recreational purposes has become quite popular in the country. While some pet owners may find that cannabis modestly reduces their own pain and relieves anxiety, its use may have adverse effects on our canine companions.

Understanding marijuana intoxication in dogs is crucial

As responsible pet owners, it is crucial to be aware of Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol or THC poisoning and other risks associated with the recreational use of marijuana. In this article, we will discuss the symptoms to watch for and provide practical tips on how to support your dog if it is accidentally exposed to marijuana.

Are Dogs Susceptible to Marijuana Poisoning?

Yes, dogs can indeed suffer from marijuana toxicity. This issue is particularly alarming because dogs have a higher number of cannabinoid receptors in their brains, making them more vulnerable to its dangerous effects.

Marijuana toxicity can manifest in "ordinary" signs like urinary incontinence.

Dogs have increased sensitivity to THC, making its effects more toxic and dangerous to their health. Although it is uncommon for a dog to die from exposure to marijuana or cannabidiol aka "CBD" products compared to other drugs, severe cases can lead to serious consequences such as seizures and uncontrolled urinary incontinence.

It is important to remember that a dog's physiological makeup is significantly different from that of humans, making the effects of marijuana toxicity more severe. Even accidental ingestion can lead to unfavorable outcomes for your pet.

Notably, reports of accidental marijuana ingestion and similar incidents have increased significantly compared to the previous year.

How Can a Dog Become High?

Technically referred to as "marijuana toxicosis," dogs can get high in several ways. In this part of our discussion, we will cover the most common risks of THC poisoning for your pet.

Marijuana ingestion

Accidental pot ingestion is perhaps the most common reason dogs become vulnerable to marijuana poisoning. Due to their curiosity and tendency to eat almost anything, dogs may be tempted to bite into marijuana flowers, buds, or leaves. Remember, even "medicinal weed" can trigger these adverse effects.

Eating marijuana-infused edibles

Another way dogs can get high is by ingesting marijuana "edibles," such as cookies, brownies, and other baked goods, as well as candies. Some of these edibles may contain CBD oil. It's crucial to note that the adverse effects of cannabis can be amplified if your dog is also exposed to other harmful substances like the artificial sweetener xylitol.

Exposure to second-hand smoke

Compared to ingesting THC-loaded parts of the cannabis plant, smoking pot delivers these high-inducing compounds directly to the bloodstream. This also applies to second-hand smoke from joints, pipes, and bongs. Additionally, emissions from vape pens can trigger marijuana poisoning in pets.

Regardless of how your dog comes into contact with cannabis, it is crucial to contact your veterinarian immediately if it shows signs of being high. The necessary medical attention will depend on the level of toxicity.

Is Marijuana Poisoning Dangerous to Dogs?

As previously mentioned, dogs are more susceptible to the psychoactive effects of THC due to the greater number of cannabinoid receptors in their brains. Even a small amount of the drug can cause marijuana poisoning. This increased sensitivity also applies to other pets, such as cats.

Even a tiny amount of cannabis can intoxicate your pet due to their heightened sensitivity to THC. The effects can be severe and potentially disastrous. Please keep this in mind to ensure the safety and well-being of your furry friends.

What Happens When a Dog Gets Really High?

Recognizing the signs of marijuana toxicity in dogs is crucial for their health and safety. Here are the common indicators that your dog may have been exposed to marijuana and THC:

Common signs associated with exposure to cannabis

• Sudden lack of energy and tiredness
• Dilated pupils
• Bouts of shaking or tremors
• Inability to hold back urine
• Confusion or lack of awareness of surroundings
• Sudden and excessive barking or crying
• Increased drooling
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
• Lowered heart rate and blood pressure
• Agitation or unexpected hyperactivity

It’s important to note that marijuana toxicosis typically starts within 30 minutes to an hour of exposure. The effects of THC can vary depending on the overall health and wellness of the affected dog, as well as the dosage.

What to Do If Your Dog Accidentally Gets High

If you notice signs of marijuana poisoning in your dog, contact your veterinarian immediately. Be honest—meaning, tell the whole truth—about the situation to avoid unnecessary tests and ensure your pet receives the appropriate treatment.

Depending on the size, age, and overall health status of your pet, your vet may administer treatment methods like intravenous fluids and the use of activated charcoal to bind the THC. In very severe cases, some vets may even perform intralipid therapy.

The effects of marijuana can vary from one dog to another. Your vet may also recommend supportive care to help eliminate any remaining toxic compounds from your dog's system.

Moreover, do not induce vomiting if your dog appears to be high, as this can lead to inhalation of vomit and cause suffocation. If you suspect your pet is high, call a vet immediately.

A Natural Product You Should Check Out

It's not just marijuana toxicosis that your pet could be prone to—other pollutants and toxins can also accumulate in your dog's body, leading to health issues. That's why it's essential to include a natural detoxifier like Zumalka's ENVIRONMENTAL DETOX in your pet care checklist.

ENVIRONMENTAL DETOX is designed to help get rid of toxins in overworked organs that are unable to flush out toxins properly, which is often the main underlying cause of allergies, dermatological conditions and other general health problems.

If you're looking for supportive care against heavy metals, pollutants, and toxins, consider ENVIRONMENTAL DETOX from Zumalka. This product can help cleanse your pet's system and support overall health.

A Final Word

Exposure to marijuana can lead to serious consequences for dogs. Whether the exposure comes from smoke, edibles, or other means, adverse effects can occur sooner or later. With the increased availability of medicinal and recreational pot, it's more important than ever to protect our pets from this issue.

I hope you’ve found this post informative. We’d love to hear from you! Please feel free to share your thoughts and questions in the comments section. At Zumalka, we’re always here to help you keep your pet as healthy and happy as possible.

About the author

Veronic Fournier

ANIMAL HEALTH TECHNICIAN

Véronique Fournier shares her extensive pet health know-how on Zumalka through her articles.

Véronique’s background as an animal wellness advocate began in Cégep La Pocatière in Quebec, which led to comprehensive internships and training with respect to the breeding, rehabilitation, and monitoring of various types of animals. The institutions she has worked with include the Quebec Aquarium and the SOS Miss Dolittle shelter, just to name a few.

Her immersion with various veterinary clinics in British Columbia and other places has made Veronique not just knowledgeable, but also quite perceptive in zeroing in on the right strategy to help keep pets in the best of health.

And can we get you in on a secret? Veronique shares that she has already made a lot of canine pals due to her stint as a foster mom in several shelters. Isn’t that cool?