Last Updated on: August 30, 2024
Dogs, in their inquisitive nature, can sometimes ingest substances that leave them in a condition often referred to as being “stoned.” Whether it’s accidental ingestion of a toxic substance or an unexpected encounter with a mind-altering compound like Marijuana or weed, a responsible dog owner must know how to react swiftly.
So, how to get a dog unstoned at home?
Let’s look at the steps to take when faced with a situation where your dog is not quite themselves and how to ensure their safety and recovery.
Table of Contents
Recognizing the Signs of a “Stoned” Dog
First of all, yes, dogs can and do get stoned. Mammalian physiology across the board is not all that different when it comes to the body’s reaction to drug consumption. Of course, for dogs, some of these marijuana products may also be poisonous or at least hazardous.
When your dog is not acting like their usual self, it’s important to be able to recognize the signs that something is amiss. Understanding these indicators can help take appropriate action quickly.
Dogs display various behavioral changes when they are under the influence.
After consuming a toxic substance (or THC poisoning), they may become lethargic, appearing unusually sluggish or tired, with a lack of interest in activities. Disorientation is another common sign, where dogs might seem confused.
Sudden aggression or heightened fear responses can also be indicative of distress. Additionally, excessive drooling or changes in appetite, such as a sudden loss of interest in food or increased hunger, can be observed.
The physical symptoms of a “stoned” dog can vary depending on the substance ingested, like THC toxicity, CBD oil, weed, or marijuana toxicity. It’s crucial to watch for these physical signs as they can provide important clues about your dog’s condition.
Look for dilated pupils, as they can be a sign of exposure to certain substances.
Red or bloodshot eyes can indicate irritation or inflammation. Gastrointestinal distress may lead to vomiting or diarrhea. Uncontrolled shaking or trembling can be a sign of toxicity, and it’s important to monitor your dog’s pulse and heart rate for irregularities.
Once you’ve established that your dog is indeed stoned, you can now move on to the part where we explore “how to get a dog unstoned at home?”
Determining the cause of your dog’s altered state is crucial for their well-being. To identify the substance responsible, start by checking your environment. Examine your surroundings for any potential hazards or substances your stoned dog might have access to.
Think about any recent events or outings where your dog may have encountered something unusual.
If someone else was with your dog or observed the incident, ask them for any information that could help identify the cause. Identifying the cause will provide valuable information when you seek professional assistance or decide on the next steps to help your furry friend regain their normal state of being.
Safety First: Assess the Situation
In a situation where a dog appears to be “stoned,” the first and foremost concern is to ensure their immediate safety. Begin by carefully assessing their surroundings. Remove any potential hazards or harmful substances from their vicinity.
Dogs under the influence of a foreign substance may not be able to make safe decisions. Secure them in a quiet and comfortable area, away from loud noises or excessive stimuli, to minimize stress. Keeping them safe and calm is the initial step in addressing the situation.
While the focus is on the dog’s altered state, it’s crucial to rule out any immediate health emergencies. Examine your dog for any signs of injury or severe distress beyond the altered behavior.
Check for any wounds, bleeding, or difficulty breathing.
If you suspect a health emergency or observe any alarming symptoms, contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal clinic immediately. Prioritizing your dog’s physical well-being is essential before addressing the weed or Marijuana intoxication issue.
If you have any information about the substance your dogs may have ingested, it’s vital to relay this to a veterinarian or professional as soon as possible.
This information can aid in determining the appropriate course of action. Be prepared to provide details such as the type of substance, the quantity ingested, and the time of ingestion.
Avoid attempting to administer any home remedies or treatments without professional guidance, as the wrong actions can worsen the situation. Confirmation of the ingested substance is crucial in guiding the subsequent steps toward your dog’s recovery and well-being.
Seek Professional Help
When you suspect that your stoned dog has ingested a substance the next crucial step is to contact your veterinarian immediately. Your veterinarian is the most qualified person to provide guidance and medical assistance tailored to your dog’s specific condition.
Provide them with all the details you have about the situation. Follow their instructions closely, and if they advise you to come in for an examination, do so. Your veterinarian’s expertise is invaluable to get your dog unstoned swiftly even in severe cases.
In situations where your veterinarian may not be readily available or if you need immediate guidance, consider contacting a pet poison helpline. These specialized hotlines are staffed by experts in toxicology who can provide advice for dealing with pet poisonings.
They can help you assess the severity of the situation and offer initial guidance.
Keep the phone number of a reputable pet poison helpline or related post on hand in case of emergencies, but always remember that their guidance should complement, not replace, the advice of your veterinarian.
Whether you consult your veterinarian or a pet poison helpline, it is crucial to follow their professional guidance closely. They may recommend specific actions, such as inducing vomiting, administering activated charcoal, or other treatments tailored to your dog’s condition.
Avoid trying to treat your dog at home without professional advice.
Inappropriate actions can worsen the situation. Remember that the expertise of professionals is essential in ensuring the best outcome for your furry friend.
Home Remedies for Detoxing Your Dog
Detoxing your canine companion is not much different (in principle) than what you would do to help a friend of yours get rid of substance poisoning symptoms. Just stay calm and try to manage the situation as well as you can.
Inducing vomiting in a dog should only be done under the direct guidance of a veterinarian or a pet poison control expert. In some cases, they may advise you to induce vomiting as a means of removing the toxic substance, like marijuana or weed from your dog’s stomach.
However, this should be done promptly after ingestion, typically within the first hour, and only if it is deemed safe for your dogs. It’s important to follow their instructions carefully, as incorrect induction of vomiting can lead to additional complications.
Activated charcoal can be a valuable tool in absorbing toxins within your dog’s stomach, preventing their absorption into the bloodstream. If recommended by your veterinarian or a poison control expert, administer activated charcoal as instructed.
It comes in a liquid or powdered form and should be administered orally.
Ensure that you use the appropriate dosage for your dog’s size and follow the recommended guidelines closely.
Keeping your dog well-hydrated is essential during the detoxification process. Encourage them to drink water, and consider offering ice cubes or small amounts of a bland, low-sodium broth if they are hesitant to drink.
Adequate hydration can help flush toxins from their system and support their overall recovery. Be mindful not to force-feed your stoned dog, as this can lead to further distress.
Throughout the detoxification process, closely monitor your dog’s condition. Keep a watchful eye on their behavior, paying attention to any changes or improvements. Note any additional symptoms that may develop and report them to your veterinarian promptly.
Monitoring their condition is crucial for getting your dog unstoned.
If there is any uncertainty or deterioration in their condition, seek professional guidance immediately. Remember, home remedies should be used as a complementary approach to professional veterinary care, not a replacement for it.
The Importance of Rest and Comfort
After taking the necessary steps to address cannabis, weed, or marijuana ingestion and seeking professional guidance, it’s crucial to create a calm and stress-free environment for your dogs. Dogs in a “stoned” state can be anxious or disoriented, so minimizing external stressors is essential.
Dim the lights, reduce noise levels, and ensure that your dog has a quiet, comfortable place to rest. By creating a peaceful atmosphere, you can help your dog relax and recover more effectively.
During this challenging time, your dogs may be feeling vulnerable and uncomfortable. As a pet owner, you must offer them emotional support and comfort.
Spend time with them, petting and soothing them gently.
A familiar blanket or toy may provide comfort as well. Be patient and understand their condition; they may not be their usual self for a while. The pet owner’s presence and comfort can go a long way in reassuring your dog and aiding in its recovery.
While allowing your dog to rest and recover, it’s essential to keep a watchful eye on their condition in severe cases. Monitor their vital signs, including their pulse and breathing rate. Check for any changes in behavior, such as improvements or worsening symptoms after THC poisoning, weed, or marijuana ingestion.
Note if they show interest in food or water, as this can be a positive sign of recovery.
If the dog owner observes any concerning developments or if the dog’s condition remains unchanged or worsens, contact a veterinarian immediately. Timely communication with your vet is vital in ensuring the best possible outcome for your furry friend.
Follow-Up Care and Vet Visit
After the initial incident and once your dogs have started to recover, it’s essential to schedule a follow-up veterinary examination. Your veterinarian will assess your dog’s overall health and ensure that there are no lingering effects or severe cases from the toxic weed or marijuana exposure.
They may conduct blood tests or other diagnostics to check for any internal damage. This follow-up visit is crucial to confirm that your dog has fully recovered and to address any remaining concerns. It also allows your vet to update your dog’s medical records and discuss preventive measures for the future.
During the follow-up visit, be sure to share your experience and actions with your veterinarian. Discuss the circumstances of the toxic exposure, like THC toxicity, CBD oil, weed, or marijuana toxicity.
The dog owner should discuss the symptoms the dog displayed, and understand what it takes to address the situation. This information can help your vet make informed decisions about your dog’s care and provide guidance on how to prevent similar incidents in the future.
To prevent future incidents, secure toxic substances like CBD oil, cannabis, THC toxicity, or Marijuana toxicity out of your dog’s reach, use childproof locks on cabinets, and ensure a pet-safe environment.
Open and honest communication with your veterinarian is key here.
This will ensure the ongoing health and well-being of your furry companion.
To prevent future incidents of toxic weed, marijuana ingestion, or THC poisoning, work closely with your veterinarian to establish long-term preventative measures. This may involve changes in your home environment, such as securing toxic marijuana, cannabis or weed out of your dog’s reach or using childproof locks on cabinets.
Your vet may also recommend routine health check-ups and vaccinations to keep your dog in the best possible health. Additionally, discuss the importance of pet-safe plants and foods, as well as proper storage of medications and chemicals.
By taking proactive steps to prevent toxic exposures, you can help ensure a safe and healthy life for your canine companion.
Bottom Line
When faced with the alarming situation of a “stoned” dog, you must act quickly. Understand the behavioral and physical signs of weed intoxication, assess the situation to ensure immediate safety, and promptly contact a veterinarian.
While home remedies can aid in the detoxification process, they should always be used in conjunction with professional guidance. Remember that your veterinarian is your most trusted resource in these situations, providing expert advice tailored to your dog’s specific condition.
Creating a calm and comforting environment, monitoring your dog’s progress, and scheduling a follow-up veterinary examination are all highly important. By sharing your experience and actions with your veterinarian, you contribute to your dog’s ongoing well-being.
FAQs
What are the common signs that my dog is “stoned”?
Common signs of a “stoned” dog include lethargy, disorientation, unusual aggression, dilated pupils, bloodshot eyes, vomiting, diarrhea, trembling, and so on.
Can I induce vomiting in my dog at home in case of toxin ingestion?
Inducing vomiting in a dog should be done under the guidance of a veterinarian or a pet poison control expert. It’s not recommended to attempt this at home.
What should I do while waiting for professional help if my dog is “stoned”?
Pet owners should ensure their dog’s immediate safety by distancing them from any potential hazards. Keep them in a quiet and comfortable environment, away from loud noises and stimuli.