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Marijuana Poisoning in Dogs
Written By Grace Park
Published: 08/01/2016Updated: 11/24/2021
Veterinary reviewed by Michele K.
What is Marijuana Poisoning?
Cannabis sativa, or the marijuana plant, is a centuries - old plant which has been used for medicinal purposes since ancient times. This plant contains more than 400 chemicals, one of them being delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol , commonly known as THC.
THC is what brings about many of marijuana’s psychological side-effects and is similar to the chemicals that are made within our human bodies called cannabinoid chemicals. Receptors of cannabinoid are located within specific areas of the brain that are associated with our memory, pleasure, thinking, coordination, and sensory functions. Many people use marijuana recreationally for pleasure, although it is illegal in many states. Marijuana is also used for medicinal purposes in some states.
This plant can be toxic to dogs, especially if a great amount is consumed. Marijuana can be toxic to dogs and the animals usually come into contact with the plant by ingesting the supply of the drug that belongs to the owners. If dogs ingest at least 3 g / kg, toxicity can occur. Symptoms usually begin within one hour and may vary depending on the amount eaten.
Marijuana poisoning in dogs is a result of dogs ingesting the marijuana plant. Marijuana contains a chemical which produces various harmful side effects and cause poisoning in dogs.
Marijuana Poisoning Average Cost
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Average Cost
$1,200
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Symptoms of Marijuana Poisoning in Dogs
If your dog has eaten marijuana, the severity of the symptoms is relative to the amount he consumed. Symptoms of Cannabis sativa poisoning include:
- Depression
- Drooling
- Hypermetria
- Incontinence
- Vomiting
- Mydriasis
- Body tremors
- Bradycardia
- Hypothermia
- Agitation
- Ataxia
- Tachycardia
- Tachypnea
- Nystagmus
- Excitability
- Seizures
Types
Dogs can become poisoned by marijuana in various forms. Different ways of marijuana ingestion that can greatly affect dogs include:
- Inhalation of smoke
- Ingesting pills or tinctures
- Eating edible items that contain the plant, such as brownies, candies, cakes, breads, and other baked goods
- Drinking liquids that contain marijuana oils, known as “shatter”, BHO, or “dabs”
Causes of Marijuana Poisoning in Dogs
Causes of marijuana poisoning in dogs are the ingestion of the plant parts. The following may take place within one to three hours after consuming marijuana. Specific causes of poisoning are due to the following:
- Central nervous system activity
- The release of neurotransmitters in specific areas of the brain (frontal cortex and cerebellum)
- Cannabinoids produce neuropharmacologic mechanisms
- THC is lipid soluble and easily distributed into organs and fat
- THC affects the tissues of the liver, brain, and kidneys
Diagnosis of Marijuana Poisoning in Dogs
If your dog has eaten marijuana, it is important to take him into the veterinarian even if he consumed a small amount. Although marijuana is an illegal drug in many states, it is still important to be truthful with your veterinarian in terms of your dog’s ingestion of this drug. The veterinarian will perform a physical examination, and might want to perform blood work, a urinalysis, and biochemistry profile. Your honesty about the drug ingestion will help your veterinarian know what is going on, and will likely save you money in testing.
During the diagnosis, if your dog is agitated due to the chemicals of the drug, the veterinarian may need to sedate him. Benzodiazepines may be used to help calm the dog in order for the veterinarian to continue with his diagnostic techniques and to begin treatment.
Differential diagnoses do exist with marijuana toxicity, and these are prescription drug overdose, such as antidepressants, drugs that stimulate the central nervous system, xylitol, hallucinogenic drugs, and other similar human medications.
Treatment of Marijuana Poisoning in Dogs
Marijuana poisoning can be serious if your dog consumed a large quantity of the plant. Due to the varying toxicities that dogs have, treatment methods will vary. Techniques the veterinarian will use to treat your dog may consist of the following:
IV Fluids
IV fluids may be necessary if your dog has been vomiting in order to prevent dehydration. Antiemetics may also be administered through the IV; maropitant and ondansetron are typically the medications of choice. Sedation may be given if your dog is overly excited. Diazepam and chlorpromazine may be given to assist in any negative central nervous system effects.
Medications
Your dog may be given a medication to prevent him from vomiting. Due to the toxic properties of marijuana and the sedative effects your dog may be having, any vomiting your dog does must be controlled and monitored. Repeated vomiting also can cause dehydration. Your veterinarian may decide to induce vomiting if your dog has a high level of toxicity and will follow this up with activated charcoal.
Monitoring
Your dog’s oxygen levels and blood pressure will need to be monitored the whole time he is with the veterinarian and being treated. In severe cases of marijuana poisoning, many dogs are put on a ventilator or respirator. Thermoregulation is also conducted in severe cases.
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Recovery of Marijuana Poisoning in Dogs
Marijuana toxicity can be very serious if treatment is not administered as soon as possible. Once your dog recovers, your veterinarian will discharge him. When home, you will need to closely monitor his recovery and follow any instructions your veterinarian has given you.
Your veterinarian will give you detailed directions on how to care for your dog and will tell you what you need to watch for in terms of any new symptoms. Depending on your dog, if his gastrointestinal tract was severely irritated from vomiting or diarrhea, your veterinarian may suggest a special bland diet while he is recovering.
It is important to keep any follow-up appointments with your medical professional so you can be assured your dog is becoming well once again. To prevent marijuana toxicity, it is important to keep all marijuana and all types of substances that contain marijuana out of the reach of your loved one.
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Marijuana Poisoning Average Cost
From 189 quotes ranging from $500 - $3,500
Average Cost
$1,200
Top
Marijuana Poisoning Questions and Advice from Veterinary Professionals
English Bulldog
Four Years
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Lethargic, Stumbling, Not Herself
We were getting ready to leave Oklahoma to drive home to Michigan and my 70lb bulldog ate my mother in laws joint that fell to the ground(we didnt know at the time). She was fine till 10 hours into the ride and she puked in her bed and when we pulled off to let her out she could barely stand and when she walks she stumbles. We forced water to her but she puked it right back up 2-3 mins later. We are still 8 hours from home and her veterinarian what can I do to help her?
July 16, 2020
Answered by Jessica N. DVM
0 Recommendations
Hello-
I know it’s inconvenient, but I would recommend finding the nearest veterinary ER and taking her there. She needs examined and likely needs IV fluids and IV antiemetics.
For toxin ingestion I also recommend calling pet poison helpline at 855-764-7661. They will be able to tell you based on the amount of toxin she received what will occur and can make a treatment plan for your veterinarian or the ER. I hope she feels better soon.
July 16, 2020
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Labrador Retriever/Pit Bull
Three Years
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Lots
Think my dog got some of my boyfriend’s edible. He was shaky, he couldn’t control his body, he wasn’t able to control his bladder and then he puked. He is now sleeping and I am monitoring his breathing. What should I do?
July 15, 2020
Answered by Dr. Michele K. DVM
0 Recommendations
Thank you for your question.
Depending on hoe much he ate, he may be over most of the side effects by now.
If he is sleeping comfortably and breathing normally, you may be fine to let him sleep, in a dark quiet room.
If he continues to be unstable, or vomit, or isn't acting normally, then it would be best to have him seen by a veterinarian.
I hope that all goes well for him.
July 15, 2020
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Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog
Six Months
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Hyperactivity, Unbalanced, Nodding,
My puppy injested a Marijuana joint
July 11, 2020
Answered by Jessica N. DVM
0 Recommendations
Your puppy needs to see a veterinarian immediately. Marijuana joints are toxic to dogs when ingested. Please take your pet to your veterinarian or the nearest emergency clinic. Good luck!
July 11, 2020
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jack russell mix
Lucy
2 Years
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0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Sleepiness, Vomiting
I made some ramen with weed, and I had sat it down so I could check the laundry, not thinking my dog knocked it over and ate what the cats didn't. I feel so horrible.
Aug. 31, 2018
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Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Butch
2 Years
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Tired
No Vomiting
Cant Stand
Not Peeing
Wobberly
No Bowl Movement
I have a 2yr old staffie, i took him to the emergency vet last night as he wasnt able to wank on his hind legs, and he was breathing heavy and fast.. normally he is a fit,healthy and active dog and doesnt let me sit down for 5 mins... the vet said he had eaten something he shouldnt either weed or something else she wasnt sure, she gave him 2 injections, 1 for pain and the other to help his muscles.. this morning jis breathing is back to normal and he does stand up when he has to but hes still wobberly and cant cant or sit for long he has to lay down, he hasnt been to the toilet since yesterday evening and doesnt seem to want to. Any advice!?..
Aug. 19, 2018
0 Recommendations
In these cases it can be difficult if we don’t know specifically what Butch has consumed, however it is good that he is making improvements and is a little more active than yesterday; however if he isn’t urinating or defecating I would consider returning to a Veterinarian for a follow up examination to be on the safe side if urine isn’t being passed. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM
Aug. 19, 2018
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Marijuana Poisoning Average Cost
From 189 quotes ranging from $500 - $3,500
Average Cost
$1,200
Get a free pet insurance quote in less than 60 seconds!
Easily compare quotes from the most trusted pet insurance companies in the United States.
