What is what to do when your dog eats weed?

If your dog has eaten weed (marijuana), it's important to act quickly. Here's what you should do:

1. Recognize the Symptoms: Be aware of the signs of marijuana toxicity in dogs. Common symptoms include:

   • Incoordination and Ataxia: Difficulty walking or standing.
   • Lethargy: Acting tired or sluggish.
   • Dilated Pupils: Enlarged pupils.
   • Sensitivity to Light and Sound.
   • Urinary Incontinence: Loss of bladder control.
   • Vomiting.
   • Drooling.
   • Tremors.
   • Seizures (rare, but possible with high doses).
   • Slowed Heart Rate or rarely, increased heart rate.

2. Contact Your Veterinarian Immediately: This is the most crucial step. Do not wait to see if your dog gets better on its own. Tell your vet as much information as possible, including:

   • How much weed you think your dog ingested.
   • What form it was in (e.g., flower, edibles, oil). Edibles are particularly dangerous as they may contain chocolate or xylitol.
   • When you think your dog ingested it.
   • Any symptoms you have observed.
   • If you can't reach your regular vet, contact an emergency veterinary clinic or a pet poison control hotline (see below).

3. Do Not Try to Induce Vomiting Without Veterinary Advice: While inducing vomiting can sometimes be helpful in cases of poisoning, it is not always appropriate and can be dangerous, especially if the dog is already showing neurological symptoms. Your vet will be able to advise you on the best course of action.

4. Follow Veterinary Instructions: Your veterinarian may recommend bringing your dog in for examination and treatment. Treatment may include:

   • Monitoring vital signs.
   • Administering IV fluids to help flush the toxins from the system.
   • Administering activated charcoal to absorb the remaining toxins in the digestive system (if appropriate).
   • Providing supportive care to manage symptoms such as tremors, seizures, or vomiting.
   • Keeping the dog in a quiet, dark place to minimize stimulation.

5. Prevent Future Exposure: Store all marijuana products securely and out of reach of your dog. Be especially careful with edibles, as they are often appealing to dogs.

Important Resources:

• ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435 (a consultation fee may apply)
• Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661 (a consultation fee may apply)

Important Considerations:

• The severity of the reaction depends on the amount of weed ingested, the dog's size, and the concentration of THC (the psychoactive component).
• Marijuana toxicity is rarely fatal in dogs, but it can be very distressing and require veterinary intervention.
• Edibles containing chocolate or xylitol can pose additional risks and require more aggressive treatment.