Imagine this: your furry friend, filled with boundless energy and unconditional love, suddenly starts acting strangely. You notice some unusual symptoms, like vomiting, trembling, or dilated pupils. Could it be possible? Could your dog have accidentally consumed cannabis and gotten high?
Believe it or not, dogs can indeed get high just like humans, and the effects can vary from mild to severe. If you suspect that your dog has ingested cannabis or any other substance, it’s crucial to take immediate action to ensure their safety and avoid any potential health risks.
Keep an eye out for the following signs that your dog might be high: vomiting, tremors, seizures, lethargy, hyperactivity, agitation, dilated pupils, difficulty walking, and changes in heart rate and blood pressure. These symptoms are clear indicators that something is amiss, and it’s essential to seek veterinary care right away.
There are several ways dogs can accidentally get high, such as ingesting cannabis edibles, THC butter, or even medications that contain cannabis. If you suspect your dog has consumed any of these substances, it’s crucial to inform your veterinarian immediately. They may recommend diagnostic tests, such as a urine test, to determine the extent of the poisoning and prescribe appropriate medications to treat your dog’s symptoms effectively.
Physical Signs Your Dog May Be High
Keep an eye out for these physical signs that may indicate your dog is high
- 🤮 Vomiting
- 💥 Tremors
- 🎇 Seizures
- 👀 Dilated pupils
- 🚶 Difficulty walking
- 💓 Changes in heart rate and blood pressure
- 😴 Coma (in severe cases)
If you observe any of these physical signs, don’t hesitate—rush your dog to the vet without delay. These symptoms can be indicative of a serious medical condition, and swift treatment is essential for your dog’s well-being.
Behavioral Signs Your Dog May Be High
In addition to physical symptoms, there are several behavioral signs that may suggest your dog is high. Keep an eye out for the following
- 😴 Unusual lethargy or sleepiness
- 🚶 Loss of coordination
- 🍽️ Increased appetite
- 😫 Agitation or restlessness
- 👂 Increased sensitivity to touch or sound
- 😔 Changes in mood or behavior
If you notice any of these behavioral signs, closely monitor your dog’s symptoms and keep a watchful eye on their well-being. If their symptoms persist or worsen, seek veterinary care as soon as possible.
What to Do If You Suspect Your Dog Is High
Discovering that your dog may have accidentally consumed drugs, including marijuana, is undoubtedly alarming. However, it’s crucial to stay calm and take immediate action to ensure your pet’s safety. Here are some steps you can take:
📞 Call Your Veterinarian
The first thing you should do is contact your veterinarian. They can guide you on the best course of action based on your dog’s symptoms and history. They may recommend bringing your dog in for an examination or suggest monitoring their symptoms at home. Your veterinarian may also recommend a urine test to confirm THC consumption and prescribe appropriate medications or supportive care.
🔍 Provide Supportive Care
While waiting for your veterinarian’s advice, provide supportive care to your dog. Keep them calm and comfortable, ensure they have plenty of water, and monitor their breathing and heart rate. You may also consider administering activated charcoal to absorb any remaining THC in their system. For severe symptoms like seizures or difficulty breathing, seek immediate veterinary care as THC poisoning can be life-threatening.
Remember, prevention is the best medicine. Keep all drugs, including marijuana, out of reach of your pets to prevent accidental consumption. If you suspect your pet has consumed any toxic substance, call the Pet Poison Helpline or your veterinarian immediately.
Preventing Your Dog from Getting High
🔒 Keep Cannabis Products Out of Reach
One of the easiest ways to prevent your dog from getting high is to store all cannabis products securely, out of their reach. This includes edibles, marijuana-infused products, THC butter, and any other cannabis-related items. Dogs are naturally curious and may be attracted to the smell or taste of these products. So, make sure to store them in a locked cabinet or on a high shelf where your dog cannot access them. Additionally, if you have guests who use cannabis, remind them to keep their products safely out of reach of your furry friend.
📚 Educate Yourself and Others
Knowledge is power when it comes to protecting your dog from accidental cannabis ingestion. Educate yourself about the dangers of cannabis poisoning in dogs and share that knowledge with your family and friends. Teach them about the signs of cannabis poisoning in dogs and what steps to take if they suspect their dog has consumed cannabis. If there are cannabis users in your household, ensure they understand the risks and are vigilant about keeping their products safely stored away from your pet.
Last words
The possibility of your dog accidentally consuming cannabis and getting high can be concerning. However, staying calm and taking swift action is crucial in such situations. If you suspect your dog has ingested a substance that can cause a high, reach out to your veterinarian or a pet poison control hotline for guidance. Be honest about what your dog has consumed and provide detailed information about their symptoms. Following professional advice is essential, and attempting home remedies without guidance can be risky.
Remember, prevention is always better than cure. Keep all medications, household cleaners, and potentially harmful substances out of reach of your pet. Stay vigilant, monitor your dog’s behavior and symptoms, and seek immediate veterinary care if any distressing signs emerge.
FAQ
How long does a dog’s high last?
The duration of a dog’s high can vary depending on several factors, including the amount of cannabis consumed, the potency of the substance, and the individual dog’s metabolism. Generally, the effects of cannabis on dogs can last anywhere from a few hours to a full day.
What do dogs feel when they get high?
When dogs get high, they can experience a range of sensations and effects. These can include relaxation, sedation, altered perception of time, increased sensitivity to touch and sound, changes in appetite, and disorientation. It’s important to note that these effects can vary from dog to dog and may also depend on the specific strain and potency of the cannabis consumed.
