How to Help a Dog Recover from Marijuana Ingestion

When my Cane Corso, Titan, got into a stash of edibles in our Seattle apartment, his wobbly legs and dazed eyes sent me into a panic. With Dr. Carter’s guidance from VCA Hospitals, I learned how to keep him safe and get him to a vet. This guide combines my experience with Titan and expert advice from VCA Hospitals and Dr. Carter to help US pet owners in places like Florida or Ohio manage a dog that has ingested marijuana. While you can’t instantly “unstone” a dog, these steps ensure their safety and recovery.

Why Marijuana Ingestion Is Dangerous for Dogs

Marijuana, especially its active component THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), is toxic to dogs and affects their nervous system [1]. VCA Hospitals explains:

• Toxicity Risk: THC disrupts brain function, causing disorientation and physical symptoms [1].
• Health Impact: Can lead to serious complications like hypothermia or coma in severe cases [2].
• No Quick Fix: THC is fat-soluble, lingering in the body for hours to days [1].
• Prevention: Secure storage prevents accidental ingestion [2].

Titan’s episode was a wake-up call to lock up edibles, I realized [1].

How Dogs Ingest Marijuana

The ASPCA lists common exposure methods [3]:

• Edibles: Dogs eat THC-infused foods (e.g., brownies, gummies) [3].
• Plant Material: Chewing raw cannabis or buds [1].
• Secondhand Smoke: Inhaling marijuana smoke [2].
• Oils/Tinctures: Licking concentrated products [3].

Titan found an unsecured edible in a guest’s bag, I discovered [3].

Symptoms of Marijuana Ingestion in Dogs

VCA Hospitals identifies key signs, typically appearing 30–90 minutes post-ingestion [1][2]:

• Disorientation (e.g., stumbling, unfocused eyes) [1].
• Slow heart rate (bradycardia) [2].
• Hyperactivity or restlessness [1].
• Urinary incontinence [2].
• Muscle tremors or shaking [1].
• Low body temperature (hypothermia) [2].
• Rare: Seizures or coma (severe cases) [1].

Titan was wobbly and urinated indoors, alarming me, I noted [1].

Materials Needed for Emergency Care

VCA Hospitals recommends [1][2]:

• Blanket: To keep dog warm (e.g., PetFusion) [1].
• Crate: Safe space (e.g., Petmate) [2].
• Leash/Harness: For transport (e.g., Coastal Pet) [1].
• Contact Info: ASPCA Poison Control (888-426-4435) or vet number [2].

How to Help a Dog Recover from Marijuana Ingestion

VCA Hospitals’ step-by-step guide, refined with Dr. Carter’s advice and my experience [1][2]:

1. Stay Calm:
   • Speak softly to avoid stressing your dog [1].
   • I reassured Titan with a calm voice, per Dr. Carter [2].
2. Secure a Safe Space:
   • Place your dog in a quiet, dimly lit room with a PetFusion blanket [1].
   • Avoid bright lights or loud noises (e.g., no TV) [2].
3. Monitor Symptoms:
   • Note signs like tremors or hypothermia for vet reporting [1].
   • I tracked Titan’s wobbling and heart rate, Dr. Carter advised [2].
4. Do Not Induce Vomiting:
   • Vomiting risks aspiration; only do if vet instructs within 30 minutes [1].
   • Dr. Carter warned against it for Titan [2].
5. Contact a Veterinarian:
   • Call VCA Hospitals or ASPCA Poison Control (888-426-4435) immediately [3].
   • Be honest about marijuana exposure for accurate treatment [1].
6. Transport Safely:
   • Use a Petmate crate or Coastal Pet harness to move your dog [2].
   • I drove Titan to VCA Hospitals quickly, keeping him warm [1].
7. Avoid Home Remedies:
   • Do not feed food (e.g., chicken) or attempt massages, as they may worsen symptoms [2].
   • Dr. Carter emphasized vet care over distractions for Titan [1].

Titan recovered after vet fluids and monitoring, I confirmed [1].

Veterinary Treatment for Marijuana Ingestion

The ASPCA outlines vet care [3]:

• Supportive Care: IV fluids, activated charcoal, or warming blankets [3].
• Monitoring: Heart rate, temperature, and neurological checks [1].
• Medications: Anti-anxiety or anti-seizure drugs if needed [2].
• Prognosis: Most dogs recover within 24–72 hours with treatment [3].

Dr. Carter used fluids to stabilize Titan, I observed [3].

Breed-Specific Risks for Marijuana Ingestion

This table outlines risks for select breeds, based on veterinary data [1][2].

Note: Size affects THC impact; tips ensure safety.

Things to Avoid During Recovery

VCA Hospitals warns against [1][2]:

• Inducing Vomiting: Risks choking or aspiration without vet guidance [1].
• Feeding or Massaging: May worsen symptoms or stress [2].
• Delaying Vet Care: Waiting risks complications like seizures [1].
• Unsecured Cannabis: Future access causes repeat incidents [2].

FAQs

• Can I reverse marijuana effects at home? No, vet care is essential; home steps only provide comfort [1].
• How long do effects last? Typically 6–24 hours, up to 72 hours in severe cases [2].
• Is marijuana always dangerous for dogs? Yes, even small amounts can cause toxicity [3].

Key Takeaways

• Vet Care Critical: Contact VCA Hospitals or ASPCA Poison Control immediately.
• Safe Environment: Use a quiet space with a PetFusion blanket.
• No Home Fixes: Avoid food or vomiting without vet advice.
• Prevent Access: Store cannabis securely to protect dogs.

Final Thoughts

Helping Titan recover in our Seattle apartment taught me the importance of quick vet action. These steps work for any US pet owner, from Florida homes to Ohio suburbs. Shop Petmate crates or Coastal Pet harnesses at PetSmart or Walmart, and contact VCA Hospitals or ASPCA Poison Control (888-426-4435) for expert care to ensure your dog’s safety.

References:

1. VCA Hospitals, “Marijuana Toxicity in Dogs”.
2. AKC, “Cannabis and Pets: What to Know”.
3. ASPCA, “Marijuana Poisoning in Pets”.