As more states in the U.S. legalize marijuana, more and more pets are accidentally consuming marijuana, which can lead to them becoming stoned. But what happens if your dog gets stoned? Is it safe to take them to the vet? In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about taking your stoned dog to the vet.
What does it mean for a dog to be stoned?
When a dog consumes marijuana, it can cause a range of symptoms, including lethargy, dilated pupils, poor coordination, drooling, and sometimes vomiting or diarrhea. In severe cases, it can lead to seizures or even coma. These symptoms can last for several hours or up to a day, depending on the amount of marijuana consumed.
Should you take your stoned dog to the vet?
Yes, you should take your stoned dog to the vet as soon as possible. While most dogs will recover on their own with time, some may require medical intervention. The vet can monitor your dog’s vital signs and provide supportive care, such as administering intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration.
Can you get in trouble for taking a stoned dog to the vet?
No, you cannot get in trouble for taking a stoned dog to the vet. Vets are required to maintain client confidentiality, so they cannot report you to the authorities for your dog consuming marijuana. However, it is important to be honest with your vet about what happened so they can provide the best care possible for your dog.
What should you tell the vet?
When you take your stoned dog to the vet, it is important to be honest about what happened. You should tell the vet how much marijuana your dog consumed, how long ago they consumed it, and what symptoms they are experiencing. This information can help the vet determine the best course of treatment.
What will the vet do?
When you take your stoned dog to the vet, they will first assess your dog’s vital signs, such as heart rate, respiration rate, and body temperature. Depending on your dog’s symptoms, the vet may administer intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration, give medication to control nausea or vomiting, or monitor your dog for seizures. In severe cases, the vet may need to hospitalize your dog for observation.
Can you treat a stoned dog at home?
While it is possible to treat a stoned dog at home, it is not recommended. Without proper medical training, it can be difficult to determine the severity of your dog’s symptoms or provide the necessary supportive care. Additionally, some home remedies, such as inducing vomiting, can actually make your dog’s condition worse.
How can you prevent your dog from consuming marijuana?
The best way to prevent your dog from consuming marijuana is to keep it out of reach. Store your marijuana and any marijuana-infused products in a secure location, such as a locked cabinet or drawer. If you suspect that your dog has consumed marijuana, contact your vet immediately.
What should you do if your dog consumes marijuana?
If you suspect that your dog has consumed marijuana, you should contact your vet immediately. Do not wait for symptoms to appear, as the sooner your dog receives medical attention, the better their chances of a full recovery.
Can dogs die from consuming marijuana?
While it is rare for dogs to die from consuming marijuana, it is possible, especially if they consume a large amount or if they have underlying health conditions. Symptoms such as seizures or difficulty breathing can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.
How long does it take for a stoned dog to recover?
The length of time it takes for a stoned dog to recover depends on the amount of marijuana consumed and
the size and health of the dog. In most cases, symptoms will resolve within a few hours to a day. However, in severe cases, it may take several days for your dog to fully recover.
What should you do after your dog recovers?
After your dog recovers from being stoned, it is important to take steps to prevent it from happening again. This includes keeping marijuana and marijuana-infused products out of reach, educating yourself and others about the dangers of marijuana for pets, and seeking professional help if you are struggling with addiction.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is important to take your stoned dog to the vet as soon as possible if you suspect they have consumed marijuana. While most dogs will recover on their own, some may require medical intervention to prevent serious complications. It is also important to be honest with your vet about what happened, as this information can help them provide the best care possible for your dog.
FAQs
- Can dogs get high from second-hand marijuana smoke?
- Yes, dogs can get high from second-hand marijuana smoke. This can lead to similar symptoms as consuming marijuana directly.
- What should you do if your dog consumes marijuana-infused edibles?
- If your dog consumes marijuana-infused edibles, you should contact your vet immediately. These products can be more potent than traditional marijuana and can lead to serious complications.
- Can cats get stoned from consuming marijuana?
- Yes, cats can also become stoned from consuming marijuana. They may experience similar symptoms as dogs.
- How can you tell if your dog has consumed marijuana?
- Symptoms of a stoned dog include lethargy, poor coordination, dilated pupils, and sometimes vomiting or diarrhea. In severe cases, your dog may experience seizures or coma.
- Is it legal to give your dog marijuana for medical reasons?
- No, it is not legal to give your dog marijuana for medical reasons. While some states have legalized medical marijuana for humans, it is still illegal to give it to pets.