Can Dogs Get High From Secondhand Weed Smoke or Ingestion?

Cannabis use continues to grow with expanding legalization, raising important questions about how it affects our four-legged companions. Many pet owners wonder if dogs can get high from secondhand weed smoke or through accidental ingestion. The short answer is yes, dogs can indeed experience psychoactive effects from cannabis exposure, but with potentially more serious consequences than humans.

Dogs and Cannabis Exposure: Understanding the Risks

Dogs have a higher sensitivity to THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. Their bodies process these compounds differently than humans do, making what might be a pleasant experience for people potentially dangerous for canines.

According to veterinary experts, dogs have more cannabinoid receptors in their brains compared to humans. This makes them more susceptible to the effects of THC, even in smaller amounts. Understanding these effects and risks is crucial for responsible pet ownership.

Secondhand Smoke Effects on Canines

Can dogs get high from secondhand weed smoke? The evidence suggests they can. When cannabis is smoked in an enclosed space, dogs can inhale the smoke and absorb THC through their lungs. Unlike humans who might choose to consume cannabis, dogs have no way to consent or moderate their exposure.

Factors Affecting Secondhand Exposure

• Room size and ventilation
• Proximity to the smoke source
• Duration of exposure
• Potency of the cannabis being smoked
• Size and health status of the dog

Even in well-ventilated areas, dogs can experience a contact high from weed smoke. Their smaller body size means that what might be a minimal dose for a human can affect a dog significantly. Similar concerns exist for other pets, as explored in this article about whether cats can get high from secondhand smoke.

Cannabis Ingestion Dangers for Dogs

While secondhand smoke presents risks, direct ingestion of cannabis products poses an even greater danger to dogs. Can dogs get high from eating weed? Yes, and the effects are typically more intense and longer-lasting than from smoke exposure.

Dogs may accidentally consume:

• Raw cannabis flower
• Edibles (particularly dangerous due to other toxic ingredients like chocolate)
• Concentrates
• Oils and tinctures

When processing cannabis material from your stash, using proper equipment like quality grinding machines for consistent preparation can help reduce loose material that might be accessible to pets. Proper storage is equally important to prevent accidental ingestion.

Symptoms of THC Toxicity in Dogs

Recognizing the signs that your dog has been exposed to cannabis is crucial for prompt intervention. Common symptoms include:

Mild to Moderate Exposure

• Dilated pupils
• Glassy eyes
• Lack of coordination
• Lethargy or excessive sleepiness
• Increased sensitivity to motion and sound
• Urinary incontinence

Severe Toxicity

• Tremors or seizures
• Abnormal heart rate
• Vomiting
• Respiratory depression
• Loss of consciousness

If you suspect your dog has been exposed to cannabis, it's important to monitor these symptoms and seek veterinary care if needed. For more detailed information on symptoms and risks, refer to this guide on what to do if your dog eats weed.

Emergency Response for Cannabis-Exposed Dogs

If you believe your dog has been exposed to cannabis through secondhand smoke or ingestion, taking prompt action is essential:

1. Assess the situation: Determine the amount and type of cannabis your dog may have been exposed to.
2. Contact your veterinarian: Be honest about the exposure, as this information is crucial for proper treatment.
3. Monitor vital signs: Watch breathing, heart rate, and responsiveness.
4. Keep your dog calm: Minimize stimulation and keep them comfortable.
5. Do not induce vomiting unless specifically instructed by a veterinarian.

Veterinarians typically treat cannabis toxicity in dogs with supportive care, including IV fluids, temperature regulation, and sometimes activated charcoal to absorb toxins. For comprehensive guidance on handling a cannabis-exposed pet, check this guide for concerned pet owners with high dogs.

Preventing Accidental Cannabis Exposure

Prevention is always better than treatment when it comes to protecting your pets:

• Store all cannabis products in secure, pet-proof containers
• Keep edibles locked away, especially those containing chocolate or xylitol
• Smoke in well-ventilated areas away from pets
• Clean up any dropped flower or residue immediately
• Inform guests about the importance of keeping cannabis products secure
• Consider designating a pet-free room for cannabis use

Remember that dogs can get a contact high off weed even from minimal exposure, so maintaining separation between your cannabis activities and your pets is essential.

Safer Cannabis Practices for Pet Owners

Responsible cannabis use and pet ownership can coexist with proper precautions. Consider these practices to minimize risks:

• Use outdoor spaces when possible to prevent secondhand exposure
• Invest in air purifiers for indoor smoking areas
• Consider alternative consumption methods that produce less ambient smoke
• Keep emergency veterinary contact information readily available
• Research pet-specific CBD products if interested in potential therapeutic benefits for your pet (only under veterinary guidance)

Understanding whether dogs can get high from weed and taking appropriate precautions ensures that your cannabis use doesn't compromise your pet's health and well-being. By maintaining awareness of the risks and implementing preventative measures, you can protect your canine companions while enjoying cannabis responsibly.