THC For Dogs: What You Need To Know

No, THC is not safe for your furry friend. This is because dogs have more cannabinoid receptors in their brains, making them more sensitive to THC. Additionally, our furry friends metabolize THC differently than we do, and this makes them highly susceptible to toxicity.

While THC alone is generally not considered safe for dogs, some studies suggest that when administered as part of a full-spectrum hemp extract, it may contribute to something known as the "entourage effect". This effect occurs when multiple cannabis compounds—including CBD, minor cannabinoids, terpenes, and even tiny amounts of THC—work together to enhance therapeutic benefits while reducing potential risks.

Some possible benefits of full-spectrum hemp products containing trace amounts of THC include:

• Pain management: Cannabinoids in full-spectrum hemp may help ease chronic pain, especially in conditions like arthritis or cancer.
• Nausea and appetite enhancement: The entourage effect may help boost appetite and reduce nausea. This can be useful in dogs undergoing chemotherapy.
• Seizure control: While CBD is the primary cannabinoid used for seizure management, some research suggests that trace amounts of THC in combination with CBD could enhance anticonvulsant effects.

Despite these potential benefits, it’s important to note that THC for dogs is not approved by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) or any other association . Additionally, you must use only veterinary-approved full-spectrum hemp products with precise THC levels for your pet. Never give your dog human-grade cannabis or THC isolates, as the risks far outweigh any possible benefits. Never give even tiny amounts of THC to your dog in any form without fully discussing it with your vet.

The most common route of marijuana exposure in dogs is oral. This occurs when your dog ingests some marijuana plant material, marijuana-laced edibles, or improperly disposed marijuana waste. Other ways your furry friend may acquire marijuana poisoning include the inhalation of secondhand smoke.

Keeping your dog safe from cannabis toxicity involves preventing accidental exposure. Recall the saying about prevention being better than cure! Store marijuana edibles in tightly sealed containers and keep them out of your dog's reach; an elevated cabinet or locked drawer should do the trick.

Next, ensure your pup is in a different room when you smoke or vape marijuana. Finally, educate all the members of your household on the dangers of dog exposure to THC.

Signs of marijuana poisoning start to manifest 30 to 60 minutes after your dog eats marijuana. However, they may occur sooner if your pup inhales it. The severity of the symptoms would depend on the amount of THC they consumed. Additionally, it will vary depending on if your fur baby consumed it alone or as an edible (containing other toxins), a marijuana-laced brownie, for instance. In this case, they must also be treated for chocolate toxicity.

If you suspect marijuana intoxication in your pet, consult your veterinarian immediately – don't wait for signs of toxicity to start. Once your vet has established that your pet is suffering from cannabis toxicity, they may administer activated charcoal to reduce THC absorption in dogs. It's not a good idea to induce vomiting in a neurologically impaired dog, as they may aspirate (inhale their vomit, potentially very dangerous). However, vomiting can be induced before the toxicity signs begin, hence the need to contact your vet ASAP.

Treatment for marijuana toxicity is usually supportive and involves the administration of IV fluids and medications to alleviate nausea, vomiting, and seizures, as well as temperature therapy. In severe cases, your vet may administer an intravenous lipid emulsion—a special IV solution that absorbs THC directly from the bloodstream. Additionally, IV fluids can help support blood pressure, ensuring stable circulation while your pet's body metabolizes the toxin.

Your pet should recover in 24–48 hours with timely intervention. However, it may take longer if your pup has been exposed to synthetic cannabinoids, usually contained in fake weed.

We've established that THC is the psychoactive substance in marijuana. Unlike CBD, which is non-psychoactive and boasts many therapeutic benefits, THC is not pup-friendly . Dogs are extra sensitive to it, and even a small amount can lead to serious toxicity. When it comes to cannabis for pets, CBD products are your safest bet. However, if your pup has ingested marijuana or inhaled some, consult your veterinarian immediately! Don't wait for clinical signs of toxicity to begin.