MORGANTOWN, W.Va. (WBOY) — A Morgantown family is spreading awareness about THC poisoning in pets after their dog was rushed to the North Central West Virginia Veterinary Emergency Clinic last week.
The dog's owner, Rebecca Rogers, told a 12 News reporter that after a long walk around the neighborhood, her puppy Sunny woke up from a nap with a shaking head and started vomiting. She said she thought Sonny might have a neurological problem before deciding to have her tested.
Rogers rushed Sunny to an emergency veterinary hospital, where veterinarians triaged her. The veterinarian said Sunny's symptoms were “very similar” to marijuana intoxication, and she asked Mr. Rogers if she had the products in her home, but Mr. Rogers “didn't have them.” I answered. Nevertheless, subsequent blood tests confirmed that Sonny was intoxicated with THC.
The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) states that the most common signs of THC intoxication are:
- Impaired balance or coordination
- lethargy
- vomiting
- urinary incontinence
- Increased sensitivity to movement and sound
- head shaking
- dilation of the pupils
- increased salivation
- slower than normal heart rate
Rogers recalled a walk around the neighborhood and wondered if Sonny had been eating something without her knowing. Sunny was okay after a vet visit, but after experiencing such a big scare, Rogers began advocating for greater pet safety when it comes to THC products.
“It is very important that you are aware of how your family is using these products. Are you using them safely? Keep them out of the reach of children and pets, and store them safely. Do people have to spend hundreds of dollars at the vet or spend hours at the emergency vet? When something like this happens, it takes a lot of time and a lot of medical care. '' said Mr. Rogers.
The AVMA reported that recreational drugs ranked 10th on its “Top 10 Pet Toxins List.” The AVMA also noted that the Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) received “nearly 11% more calls regarding possible marijuana ingestion in 2022 than in 2021, and the number of calls has increased by nearly 300% over the past five years.” ” he also said.
The APCC said most of the cases involved pets ingesting marijuana-infused baked goods. This usually comes with additional risks, as there can be more toxic ingredients, such as chocolate, raisins, and xylitol, many of which can have worse outcomes.
If you are unsure whether your pet has been poisoned, call APCC at 888-426-4435. However, please note that a consultation fee will be charged. You can also prevent marijuana addiction by keeping an eye on your pet when you go out and disposing of recreational drug items in a safe place.
