Can My Dog Have THC? THC Toxicity In Pets is Dangerous

CBD History: Does CBD oil get you high?

CBD was discussed in the U.S. back in the 1940s, 20 years prior to THC (the compound that does get you “high”). Fast forward to the 60s, and that is when we really started to learn about the benefits it could provide. Dr. Raphael Mechoulam identified THC as the psychoactive compound and CBD as non-intoxicating with hundreds of medicinal benefits.

Pet CBD Oil Benefits-

CBD is amazing for the pet community to learn about because it provides so many benefits to your pet WITHOUT the psychoactive effect. There are many cannabinoids produced by the cannabis plant. The most prominent are Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and Cannabidiol (CBD). Veterinary clinical studies show proof that CBD rich oil relieves symptoms in osteoarthritis, seizures, and anxiety. It also has shown relief during cancer treatment, IBD, and inflammation in pets.

Most importantly, make sure you are sourcing the best CBD for your pet and that means a reliable and transparent source. There are also products sold through dispensaries that are high in CBD and also contain THC in various levels. These in most instances are for human consumption only.

Why the Increase in Pet THC Toxicity?

"The increased accessibility to the drug has led to an increase in accidental exposure in pets." 

There has been a growing rate of veterinarians seeing pets being brought in for “marijuana toxicity” in states that have legalized marijuana. Some emergency vets are seeing upwards of 10 + pets per week for toxicity.

“With its legalization in various states across the United States, marijuana is becoming very common in households for medicinal purposes. In fact, over the past 6 years, Pet Poison Helpline has experienced a 448% increase in marijuana cases.”

My Dog Ate an Edible /Cannabis Product and Ingested THC?

If you believe your pet may have ingested a product containing THC rush them to the nearest ER Vet or call the ANIMAL POISON CONTROL CENTER 24/7 at (855) 764-7661 Your pet may show signs immediately or up to 12 hours after ingesting. Just like in people, THC can affect every pet differently. They also have more receptors than we do, making them more sensitive to the THC.

Even if you do not see adverse immediate signs in your pet, it is important to note that they can come on later. THC is usually not deadly to a pet unless they are left unprofessionally treated. Please don't make the mistake of not seeking help from a veterinarian. The onset of symptoms can come on in their sleep causing them to silently aspirate etc. 

Common symptoms to look for are:

-Dilated pupils or glassed over eyes

-Dazed expression

-Difficulty walking

-Vomiting

-A low or high heart rate

-Vocalization such as whining or crying

-Agitation

-Trouble regulating temperature causing the body temperature to drop or rise

-Incontinence

-Seizures

-Potentially coma

There is no “one” cure for marijuana toxicity in pets, but veterinarians have the tools to keep your pet safe, comfortable and their vitals regulated throughout the detoxing process. They may also use things as charcoal to bind the toxins in their body which help eliminate them faster.

Full disclosure on how and what your pet may have ingested is also important. The treatment will vary on how your pet was exposed. Was it second-hand smoke inhalation, an edible containing chocolate, or straight flower? Because of the stigma surrounding marijuana, even used for medicinal purposes people hold back from the details and this is only doing your pet a disservice.

We recommend keeping any products containing THC stored safely and in high places that your pet will have no opportunity of getting into.

And as always, source your pet CBD responsibly and make sure it is 3rd party tested with available lab reports. Not all CBD products are created equally, and you want to make sure you are dosing your pet properly.