If you’re a dog owner, you know that they’re curious creatures who often get into things they shouldn’t. One of those things might be marijuana, which can happen more often than you think. It’s important to know what to do if your dog gets stoned and how long it takes for them to recover. In this article, we’ll discuss the effects of marijuana on dogs, what to do if your dog gets stoned, and how long it takes for them to recover.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Can Dogs Get Stoned?
- Effects of Marijuana on Dogs
- Symptoms of a Stoned Dog
- What to Do if Your Dog Gets Stoned
- How Long Does It Take for a Stoned Dog to Recover?
- Factors Affecting Recovery Time
- How to Help Your Dog Recover
- Preventing Marijuana Poisoning in Dogs
- Conclusion
- FAQs
Can Dogs Get Stoned?
Yes, dogs can get stoned. Marijuana contains THC, which is the psychoactive compound that causes a high. Dogs have more THC receptors in their brains than humans, so it takes much less to have an effect. This means that even a small amount of marijuana can cause a dog to become stoned.
Effects of Marijuana on Dogs
Marijuana affects dogs differently than it affects humans. Dogs can experience a range of symptoms, including lethargy, disorientation, loss of coordination, dilated pupils, and an altered sense of time. In severe cases, dogs can experience seizures, respiratory problems, and even coma.
Symptoms of a Stoned Dog
If your dog has ingested marijuana, there are a few symptoms you should look out for. These include:
- Lethargy
- Disorientation
- Loss of coordination
- Dilated pupils
- Red eyes
- Increased heart rate
- Dry mouth
- Vomiting
- Urinary incontinence
- In severe cases, seizures and coma
What to Do if Your Dog Gets Stoned
If you suspect that your dog has ingested marijuana, it’s important to act quickly. Call your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital right away. They can advise you on what to do next and whether your dog needs to be seen.
How Long Does It Take for a Stoned Dog to Recover?
The amount of time it takes for a stoned dog to recover depends on several factors. In general, it can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days for the effects of marijuana to wear off completely. However, some dogs may experience lingering effects for several weeks.
Factors Affecting Recovery Time
Several factors can affect how long it takes for a stoned dog to recover. These include:
- The amount of marijuana ingested
- The potency of the marijuana
- The size and weight of your dog
- Your dog’s age and overall health
- How quickly your dog received treatment
How to Help Your Dog Recover
There are a few things you can do to help your dog recover from marijuana poisoning. These include:
- Keeping your dog calm and quiet
- Monitoring their vital signs
- Providing plenty of water to help flush the marijuana out of their system
- Offering bland food if your dog is able to eat
- Following your veterinarian’s instructions for any medications or treatments
Preventing Marijuana Poisoning in Dogs
The best way to prevent marijuana poisoning in dogs is to keep it out of their reach. This means keeping marijuana products, edibles, and paraphernalia in a secure location that your dog cannot access. It’s also a good idea to talk to your friends and family members about the dangers of leaving marijuana products out where dogs can get
to them. If you do suspect that your dog has ingested marijuana, seek veterinary help immediately.
Conclusion
Marijuana can have serious effects on dogs, and it’s important to act quickly if you suspect that your dog has ingested it. Recovery time can vary depending on several factors, but with proper treatment and care, most dogs are able to fully recover. Prevention is key, so make sure to keep marijuana products out of reach of your furry friends.
FAQs
- Can secondhand marijuana smoke affect my dog?
- Yes, secondhand marijuana smoke can affect dogs and cause symptoms similar to those of marijuana ingestion.
- Is it safe to give my dog CBD oil?
- CBD oil can be safe for dogs in certain situations, but it’s important to talk to your veterinarian before giving it to your pet.
- Can marijuana be lethal for dogs?
- In rare cases, marijuana ingestion can be lethal for dogs. This is more likely to occur if they ingest large amounts of highly potent marijuana products.
- Can dogs become addicted to marijuana?
- While dogs can become accustomed to the effects of marijuana, there is no evidence to suggest that they can become addicted.
- How can I tell if my dog is stoned?
- Symptoms of a stoned dog can include lethargy, disorientation, loss of coordination, dilated pupils, and an altered sense of time. If you suspect that your dog has ingested marijuana, seek veterinary help immediately.