How To Get A Dog Unstoned? Here’s What You Need To Know

As a dog owner, it’s natural to want the best for your furry companion. However, sometimes accidents happen and dogs may accidentally ingest drugs or other substances that can leave them feeling stoned or intoxicated. This can be a stressful and scary situation for both you and your pet.

If you find yourself in this situation, don’t panic. There are steps you can take to help your dog get unstoned and back to their happy and healthy selves. It’s important to act quickly and seek professional help if necessary.

In this article, we’ll discuss some of the things you need to know about how to get a dog unstoned. We’ll cover tips on identifying signs of drug toxicity in dogs, common drugs and substances that can make dogs feel stoned, and steps you can take to help your furry friend recover.

“Remember, prevention is key when it comes to keeping your dog safe and avoiding situations where they could accidentally ingest something harmful.”

By following these guidelines, you’ll be better equipped to handle any potential emergencies involving your dog and keep them safe and healthy for years to come.

Understand The Signs Of A Stoned Dog

If your dog has accidentally consumed marijuana, it is important to understand the signs of a stoned dog. Marijuana can cause various effects on dogs depending on their size, weight, and how much they have ingested. Some common signs that your dog may be stoned include red eyes, dilated pupils, disorientation, lack of coordination, excessive drooling, lethargy, and altered behavior.

Red Eyes and Dilated Pupils

One of the most noticeable symptoms of a stoned dog is red eyes accompanied by dilated pupils. This happens because marijuana affects blood vessels, causing them to expand. When this happens in the eyes, the blood vessels become more visible, making the whites of the eyes look redder than usual. If you notice these symptoms in your dog, it is best to take them to the veterinarian for further examination as soon as possible.

“Marijuana affects many systems of the body, including the cardiovascular system.” -Dr. Gary Richter

Disorientation and Lack of Coordination

Marijuana affects the brain’s ability to perform coordinated movements. Therefore, if your dog has ingested weed, you may notice him stumbling, swaying, or even having difficulty walking. They may also appear dizzy, confused, or disoriented, which can make them bump into objects or furniture around the home. To prevent any accidents, it is advisable to keep an eye on your dog and restrict their movement until they no longer show these symptoms.

“THC found in marijuana causes psychoactive effects and alters motor function/movement.” -ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center

Excessive Drooling and Lethargy

Dogs that have ingested marijuana often experience excessive drooling, which is a result of reduced muscle control. This happens because THC, the psychoactive compound in marijuana, affects the central nervous system. It also leads to lethargy and fatigue, which causes your dog to appear tired or sleepy.

If you believe your dog has consumed marijuana, there are several steps you can take to help them recover:

• Stay calm and monitor your dog’s behavior
• Take note of any abnormal symptoms and when they occur
• If your dog shows severe symptoms such as seizures or unconsciousness, take them to an emergency veterinarian immediately
• In less severe cases, call your regular veterinarian for advice on how to manage the situation

It is essential to keep marijuana and all other toxic substances safely stored out of reach from pets. Prevention is better than cure. Therefore, ensure you dispose of marijuana products carefully and keep anything containing this substance away from your furry friend. If your pet accidentally consumes any toxic substances, acting quickly may save their life.

Don’t Panic And Stay Calm

Watching your dog stumble or become unresponsive after ingesting something they shouldn’t have can be a scary experience. However, it’s important to remain calm and composed in order to effectively help your furry friend.

Your dog is counting on you to make rational decisions and guide them through this difficult time. Take a few deep breaths and try to keep a level head.

“Dogs are an extension of our family unit, so maintaining a hospice setting for their needs during all times keeps the bond between us that much stronger.” -Gary Gait, former professional lacrosse player and coach

Assess the Situation

The first step towards helping your stoned dog is to determine what they’ve ingested and how long ago it happened. Gather any information you can about the substance and contact your veterinarian immediately.

If possible, bring a sample of what your dog ate with you to the vet. This will allow the medical professionals to accurately diagnose and treat your pet.

“With veterinary emergencies, owners need to think like firefighters do when dealing with flames; respond rapidly! Do not wait until it is too late to seek attention.” -Dr. Justine Lee, emergency veterinarian

Avoid Agitating Your Dog

Dogs who are disoriented due to intoxication may act unpredictably. It’s important to avoid doing anything that could agitate or stress out your pet further.

Avoid loud noises, bright lights, and making sudden movements around your dog. Speak to them in a calming tone and provide plenty of reassurance that everything will be okay.

“Sometimes things go wrong and we might feel lost – in these moments it’s essential to remember to breathe and find our balance.” -Jessica Díaz, author and animal advocate

Provide a Safe and Quiet Environment

Create a quiet and comfortable space for your dog to rest while you wait for veterinary assistance. Place them in an area of your home that is dark and quiet, away from other pets or loud noises.

If your dog is having trouble standing or walking, provide non-slip mats or towels to prevent them from injuring themselves further.

“To err on the side of caution is always better when it comes to poisoning situations.” -Dr. Lisa P. Weeth, veterinarian and toxicology consultant

Monitor Your Dog Closely

Keep a close eye on your pet’s behavior and symptoms as they recover. Take notes on any changes in their demeanor, appetite, or bathroom habits.

Attend all follow-up appointments with your veterinarian and make sure to follow any instructions or medication schedules they give you.

“It’s important to remember that management will never cure a disease; however, it will allow people and animals to live longer and happier lives.” -Dr. Elaina Jurecki, emergency veterinarian

Getting your dog unstoned requires quick thinking, careful observation, and professional assistance. By remaining calm and following the steps outlined above, you can help your furry friend get back to their happy and healthy self in no time. Remember, prevention is always the best medicine- keep illicit substances out of reach and be aware of potential hazards in your home!

Keep Your Dog Hydrated

If your dog has accidentally ingested marijuana or any other drug that gets them “stoned,” you might notice some concerning symptoms such as lethargy, excessive drooling, slow breathing, and loss of balance. One important step to take in helping your furry friend feel better is to keep them hydrated. Here are some tips for ensuring that your dog drinks enough water:

Offer Fresh Water Frequently

Dogs lose fluids when they vomit or experience diarrhea due to the ingestion of potentially harmful substances. Therefore, it’s crucial that you provide them with clean and fresh drinking water multiple times throughout the day.

You can make sure your pet always has access to clean water by keeping a bowl in each room they frequently visit. However, if your dog isn’t interested in drinking from their regular bowl, you can try adding ice cubes to the water or offering flavored broth to encourage them to drink more.

Use a Syringe or Dropper to Administer Water

Some dogs might refuse to drink water even after you offer it numerous times. To make sure they stay hydrated, you may need to use a syringe or dropper to give them small amounts of water at frequent intervals. Keep in mind that too much water given too fast can cause additional vomiting, so pay close attention to how your dog reacts and adjust accordingly.

Syringes or droppers work best for small dogs that require smaller amounts of water than larger ones. You’ll want to slowly drip the water into the side of their mouth while avoiding the back of their throat. This method prevents aspiration of water into the lungs which could make your dog’s condition worse.

Avoid Force-Feeding Your Dog

It can be very tempting to force your dog to drink water if you think they’re dehydrated, but this could make things worse. If your furry companion isn’t drinking water even after offering it in various ways, don’t resort to force-feeding them. Forcing liquids can cause aspiration pneumonia where the lungs become inflamed due to inhalation of fluids.

If your pet is refusing to drink or maintaining their hydration levels through taking food, and medication then getting veterinary care may be necessary.

“Given dehydration and vomiting, some dogs might need fluid support which will require hospitalization.” -Dr. Jason Nicholas (Preventive Vet)

Take Your Dog For A Walk

Provide a Leash and Collar

If you’re wondering how to get a dog unstoned, taking them for a walk can be an effective way to help them relax and recover from any marijuana ingestion. However, it’s important to ensure that your furry friend is safe during the walk by providing them with a leash and collar.

A sturdy leash and properly fitted collar not only keep your dog under control but also prevent any accidents or injuries during the walk. Choose a collar that fits snugly around their neck without being too tight or loose. It’s best to opt for a harness if your dog pulls on the leash or has respiratory issues as this helps to distribute the pressure evenly across their body.

“Collars can put pressure on dogs’ airways and lead to problems such as coughing, breathing difficulty, collapsing trachea and esophageal disorders.” – Dr Jennifer Coates

Choose a Calm and Familiar Route

To reduce stress levels in your dog, choose a calm and familiar route for walking. Avoid crowded places with loud noises and vehicles as they may startle or agitate your pup. Instead, opt for peaceful locations like parks, trails, or quiet neighborhoods where your dog can enjoy nature and sniff around comfortably.

If your dog ingested cannabis accidentally while you were out walking, try retracing your steps to locate the source of marijuana and remove it if possible. Ensure that they are away from such substances in future walks as well.

“A good walk refreshes the mind and body, releases tension/frustration, exercises dogs, aids in digestion/pooping/urinating, keeps muscles limber/flexible, reduces risk of obesity/diabetes/cancer/arthritis and creates a bond between you two.” – Kelly Dunbar

Encourage Your Dog to Drink Water

Marijuana ingestion can make dogs thirsty, so it’s important to encourage them to drink water during and after the walk. Carry a portable bowl or bottle along with you and offer fresh water intermittently. Dehydration can lead to several health complications in dogs like kidney failure, heat exhaustion, and seizures.

If your dog seems disinterested in drinking water, try adding flavors that appeal to their taste buds like chicken broth or beef stock. It is essential to keep them hydrated because this detoxifies their body as well.

“Dogs pant heavily to regulate their high body temperature even on a mild day, causing them to lose large amounts of fluid through evaporation and excessive urination.” – Dr Katy Nelson

Monitor Your Dog’s Behavior and Reaction

After the walk, continue monitoring your dog’s behavior for any signs of distress or discomfort. If they are still showing symptoms of marijuana ingestion like lack of coordination, lethargy, dilated pupils, increased heart rate, or vomiting, consider taking them to the vet immediately.

Your veterinarian may perform tests to detect cannabis toxicity in your pet’s system and provide appropriate treatment accordingly. Always remember that prevention is better than cure, therefore be mindful about keeping toxic substances away from your pets to ensure their health and safety,

“Each year we see about three to five cases per week of marijuana toxicosis in animals” – Dr Tina Wismer

Walking your dog is an effective remedy when it comes to getting them unstoned- but not without proper precautions. By providing a leash and collar, choosing a calm route, encouraging hydration and monitoring behavior, you can get your furry friend back to normal after marijuana ingestion. However, it is wise to remain cautious about toxic substances’ accessibility and train your pets accordingly.

Consult A Vet If Necessary

If you suspect that your dog has ingested cannabis or any other substance that may have caused them to become “stoned,” it is crucial to seek veterinary care as soon as possible. Even if the symptoms appear to be mild, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and get professional advice.

Dogs can be sensitive to THC and other chemicals found in marijuana, which can interfere with their normal bodily functions and cause a range of adverse effects. Some common signs that your pup may be intoxicated include:

• Loss of coordination
• Lethargy or excessive sleepiness
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Incontinence or loss of bladder control
• Excessive salivation or drooling
• Abnormal behavior or agitation

If you notice these symptoms, call your veterinarian immediately and explain the situation. They will advise you on what actions to take next, whether that means bringing your dog in for an exam or monitoring them at home.

Look for Local Emergency Vet Clinics

In some cases, your regular vet may not be available, or you may need urgent care outside of normal business hours. It’s essential to know where your nearest emergency veterinary clinic is located so that you can quickly get your pet the help they need.

You can typically find this information online by searching for “emergency vet near me” or checking directories of local animal hospitals. Make sure to keep the phone number and address handy in case of an emergency.

When visiting an emergency vet, bring any relevant medical history related to your dog’s condition. Be prepared to provide details about when you noticed symptoms, what your dog may have ingested, and any other relevant information that could aid in diagnosis and treatment.

Contact Your Regular Vet for Advice

If you’re unsure whether or not to seek veterinary care, contact your regular vet first. They will be able to assess the situation over the phone and advise you on the best course of action.

In many cases, mild cannabis intoxication can be treated at home with supportive care, such as keeping the dog calm and comfortable, providing plenty of water, and monitoring their breathing and heart rate. However, if the symptoms are severe or persist for an extended period, immediate medical care may be necessary.

Your veterinarian may recommend bringing your dog in for an exam, either immediately or during regular business hours. Depending on the severity of symptoms, they may administer intravenous fluids, medications, or other treatments to help detoxify your dog’s system and alleviate discomfort.

“It is important that pet owners understand how toxic marijuana can be,” says Dr. Ahna Brutlag of PetPoisonHelpline.com. “Ingestion of marijuana by pets can lead to depression of the central nervous system and respiratory system, which can be fatal.”

Prevention is key when it comes to preventing accidental ingestion of drugs or toxins. Keep all substances out of reach of curious dogs, and make sure to monitor them closely anytime they are exposed to new environments or situations.

By staying vigilant and seeking prompt veterinary care when needed, you can help keep your furry friend healthy and happy. Remember, a little extra caution goes a long way in keeping your pup safe!

Prevent Future Incidents

If you are reading this, chances are you have experienced the panic and worry that comes with having a stoned dog. While it may be amusing to some, marijuana ingestion can lead to serious health issues for your furry friend. The good news is that there are steps you can take to keep this from happening again in the future.

Keep Marijuana and Edibles Out of Reach

The most obvious thing to do after an incident involving a stoned dog is to remove any drugs or edibles from areas where they might be found by your pet. This includes storing products out of reach on high shelves, behind locked doors, or in tamper-proof containers. Be sure to dispose of unused substances properly as well, so they don’t end up in the wrong paws.

Monitor Your Dog’s Behavior and Reaction to New Foods and Substances

Dogs are naturally curious creatures, which can sometimes get them into trouble when exploring new things around the home. To prevent accidental ingestion of harmful substances in the future, it may be helpful to monitor their behavior and reaction to unfamiliar foods or items. Signs that your dog may have ingested something harmful include vomiting, lethargy, lack of coordination, agitation, and dilated pupils.

Train Your Dog to Avoid Ingesting Unknown Substances

The best way to prevent future incidents of stoned dogs is through proper training. Teaching your dog not to ingest unknown substances is essential for their safety and wellbeing. Obedience training can help ensure that your pet follows commands such as “leave it” or “drop it” when necessary. Consistently reinforcing the desired behaviors over time will ultimately lead to better decision-making skills for your pup.

“Properly trained, a man can be dog’s best friend.” -Corey Ford

• Do not let your dog roam freely outdoors or in public areas unsupervised.
• Keep potentially harmful products out of reach at all times.
• Treat ingesting marijuana like any other emergency situation and seek immediate veterinary attention when necessary.
• Take the time to teach your pet proper obedience training so that they are less likely to ingest unknown substances in the future.

While an incident involving a stoned dog can be alarming, taking preventative measures such as storing marijuana and edibles out of reach, monitoring pet behavior around unfamiliar substances, and providing accurate training can help reduce the likelihood of future emergencies. Keep in mind that being proactive now can save you worry and vet bills in the long run!

Frequently Asked Questions