If you suspect that your dog may have ingested marijuana and is behaving abnormally, you may be wondering what you should do. This article will provide guidance on how to help a dog that is stoned, offering tips on how to get your dog unstoned and back to normal.
Why is My Dog Acting Stoned?
Dogs can also consume marijuana, which contains psychoactive compounds that bind to cannabinoid receptors in their bodies. This can cause a range of negative effects on their health. If you suspect your dog has consumed marijuana, it is crucial to contact your veterinarian right away. Symptoms such as lethargy, difficulty walking, dilated pupils, and appearing to be in a fog are all indications that your dog may be stoned due to marijuana ingestion.
How to Get a Dog Unstoned
If you believe your dog is stoned despite not consuming marijuana, there are still some things you can do to help them. However, it is important to note that many symptoms of a high dog could potentially be symptoms of something more serious, such as a stroke or a brain tumor. Therefore, if you notice any of these signs in your dog, take them to the vet right away.
Take Them to a Vet
It is crucial to inform your veterinarian immediately if you suspect your dog has consumed marijuana. They can provide proper treatment and care for your pet. The vet will likely assess the dog’s vital signs and perform certain tests, such as urine and blood tests, to determine the dog’s health.
If the marijuana consumption took place within the past hour or so, the vet may attempt to induce vomiting or provide activated charcoal to limit further marijuana absorption and lessen the consequences of marijuana poisoning. In severe situations, an intravenous lipid solution may be administered to help counteract the toxic effects of marijuana. The vet will monitor your dog’s temperature, pulse, and blood pressure until the marijuana has completely left the body and the dog has recovered from all of the effects of marijuana.
Place Your Dog in a Dimly Lit Room
Sensitivity to bright lights is a symptom of marijuana toxicity. So placing your dog in a dark room with the curtains drawn can aid in keeping them quiet and blocking out hypersensitivity to stimuli.
Give Cuddles and Love
Your dog will undoubtedly love some cuddling with its favorite person in the world, even if they are both stoned. While giving your dog some hugs won’t always help the symptoms go away faster, it will provide comfort to the dog, knowing that they are not alone and that things will turn out well.
Keep Them Fed and Hydrated
It is crucial to feed and keep your dog hydrated during its recovery. Keep some clean water nearby, and try to give your dog some bland, light food, such as white rice or boiled chicken. This will help keep their body weight stable and support their bodily functions.
Keep Them in a Calm Environment
Along with placing your dog in a dimly lit area, it is also highly beneficial if you maintain a generally tranquil and laid-back atmosphere in your home or around your dog. Turn off the TV or keep the volume down to minimize sensory input as much as possible.
Rub Their Ears
Gently massaging your dog’s ears can help calm them down and make them feel better since their ears contain several nerve endings. Therefore, give your dog’s ears some light pressure or a gentle massage since it will make them feel a lot better.
Brush Them
If your dog enjoys being brushed, you can try brushing them to help calm them down and make them feel better. However, it’s essential to remember not to attempt to brush your dog when they are high if they generally don’t like it. Brushing may not be the best option for dogs experiencing severe symptoms of marijuana toxicity.
Signs Your Dog is Stoned
There are several signs that your dog may have ingested marijuana. Common side effects to watch out for include drowsiness, difficulty walking, confusion and disorientation, lethargy, loss of bladder control, hyperactivity, lack of coordination, dilated pupils, and slow heart rate. If you observe any of these symptoms in your dog, it is essential to seek veterinary attention immediately.
Conclusion
If you suspect your dog has consumed marijuana and is acting stoned, it is crucial to contact your veterinarian for guidance and proper treatment. While there are steps you can take to help your dog sober up, veterinary care is essential to ensure their well-being. Remember to create a calm and soothing environment for your dog during their recovery. With the right care and attention, your dog will soon be back to normal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will the vet report me to the police if my dog ate marijuana?
A: Most vets prioritize the dog’s health and relief from any suffering and do not give much thought to the owners. Therefore, it is unlikely that a vet would report you to the police, although there is a possibility. However, be prepared for your vet to criticize the method you keep your stash, and with good reason.
Q: How can I prevent my dog from ingesting marijuana?
A: Always store your marijuana in a sturdy, secure container to keep it fresh and deter your dog from attempting to raid your stash. You can also keep your marijuana in a bedroom dresser or kitchen cabinet out of your dog’s reach. If you reside in an area where it is permitted, keep your cannabis secured in your vehicle’s trunk to comply with most state regulations.
Q: Can dogs die from ingesting marijuana?
A: While most scientists believe that the effects of weed cannot kill you, even in large amounts, some experts disagree when it comes to dogs. THC affects the cortex of the brain, while the brain stem is not affected. The area of the brain responsible for keeping you alive is the latter. For this reason, it is essential to be cautious since marijuana toxicity can have severe and even fatal consequences for dogs.
Q: How do dogs who are stoned feel?
A: Dogs often experience cannabis’ positive and negative effects in the same way that people do. The main difference is that the negative effects will be far stronger than the positive. They will be terrified since they will only be aware of the louder noises and altered concentration. Depending on how much THC they’ve consumed, their experience will be either mild or powerful. Either way, they won’t find it enjoyable.
Q: What should I do if my dog gets high?
A: Unfortunately, there’s nothing you can do to hasten the effects of marijuana on your dog’s behavior. In fact, taking them to the veterinarian as soon as possible is the best thing you can do. If your dog only ingested a small amount and you don’t want to take a chance, let them rest and make things as comfortable as possible. Feeding them can help mitigate the effects of THC, and keep an eye on them at all times to prevent harm.
Q: How long do the effects of marijuana last in dogs?
A: The effects of marijuana can last for a day or two in dogs. However, it is important to monitor your dog’s recovery and seek veterinary attention if their condition worsens or if the symptoms persist.
Q: Can dogs enjoy the effects of marijuana?
A: While some dogs may experience sensations of pleasure, relaxation, and tranquility when high, others may behave erratically or aggressively. It is vital to be mindful of these potential side effects if your dog has consumed marijuana.
Q: Are there any long-term health effects of marijuana ingestion in dogs?
A: While most dogs that consume marijuana recover in a few days, there is always the possibility of more severe health issues, such as brain tumors or damage to brain processes. To be safe, take your dog to the vet if you are unsure if they are high. Some symptoms of marijuana toxicity can be mistaken for other health conditions.
Q: Is marijuana toxic to dogs?
A: Yes, marijuana can be toxic to dogs. The active ingredient in marijuana, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), can cause a range of negative effects on a dog’s health, including slow heart rate and changes in blood pressure. If you suspect your dog has consumed marijuana, it is crucial to seek veterinary attention immediately.
Q: Can dogs recover from marijuana poisoning?
A: Most dogs that consume marijuana recover in a few days with proper veterinary care. However, there is always the possibility of more severe health issues, so it’s important to monitor your dog’s recovery and seek medical attention if necessary.