THC, also known as delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, is a component of the cannabis plant and is mainly used as a body relaxant and pain reliever for humans. Furry friend pain makes the dog owner depressed and in pain. So to help their lovely companion, dog lovers try to use pain reliever medication, home remedies, plants and sometimes oils. But the main thing to consider is its safe use for the dog. But how much THC is safe for dogs?
Because some medication and other pain relievers may be suitable for human use but not for pets. SO what about THC for dogs? Is THC safe for dogs?
Our experts will let you know about all the possible aspects of THC for dogs in this article. Includes benefits, side effects, how to use and THC Dosage. You can use the table of content for smooth Navigation.
How much THC is safe for dogs?
In the United States, about 36 states legalized medicinal marijuana (THC). In comparison, about 14 states allow the use of CBD. This increases pets and dogs’ exposure to THC. Currently, many researchers are studying the effects of THC and CBD on dogs, but still, there is not satisfactory and substantial evidence about the safe use of the delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol in pets. In 95% of cases, THC toxicity will not be fatal for your canine; however, it can lead your puppy to noticeable and irritating behaviors and possibly severe health issues.
Pet Poison Helpline reports a 448% increase in marijuana THC toxicity cases in pets. After in-depth research, the servedogs Team concluded that THC is not safe for dogs.
Side Effects and symptoms of THC For Dogs:
- Loss of Balance
- Loss of coordination
- Abnormal heart rate
- Hypersensitivity to touch
- Incontinence & Dilated pupils
- Drooling, Howling and whining
- Sedation & lethargy
- Problem in breathing
- Rise or fall in the temperature
- Agitation & Lethargy
- Urinary incontinence
- Vomiting & Tremors
- Seizures & Coma
THC Benefits for Dogs:
- Instant Pain Relief
- Helps to stop Vomiting
- Help with Appetite
- Anti-cancer & Anti-nausea
- Neuroprotective
How to Treat THC Toxicity in dogs?
- If your pet inhaled or ingested a toxic dose of THC, it needs immediate medical attention. Take your pet immediately to the vet clinic.
- If your canine is recently exposed to THC, your vet will make them vomit or pump and clean the stomach to prevent further absorption. Or will do other protective incentives if you applied the THC oil typically on your puppy body.
- If too much time has elapsed, your vet will use activated charcoal drinks to neutralize the toxin of THC in the body.
- The use of an enema can also be used to stop toxin absorption in the GI tract.
- If your puppy is lethargic, your vet may use IV fluids to prevent dehydration, support blood pressure, and maintain organ function.
- Veterinarians will try to regulate your dog’s temperature and will monitor the pet’s heart rate to regulate.
- In severe vomiting, anti-vomiting medication will be used to stop the vomiting and protect the pup from dehydration.
- Agitation can also occur. To reduce Agitation, Anti-anxiety medications will be used.
- Noise might be a problem for your dog, so Noise should be avoided.
Why is THC bad for dogs?
THC is toxic to dogs because it contains Cannabinoids, the most effective chemical which can lead a puppy to health issues. In addition, dogs have more cannabinoid receptors than humans; therefore, the effects of THC, Marijuana and cannabis on dogs are more different and potentially more toxic than humans.
How much time does THC take to start affect on dogs?
The effects of THC on dogs depend on some factors, such as size, breed, overall health and amount of THC. Generally, the signs and results of cannabis Marijuana start in dogs from about 4 hours to 15 hours after ingesting or inhaling. The signs can last in pets from 30 minutes to several days, depending on the amount of THC.
How much time is required for a dog to recover from the THC effects?
In normal cases, a dog may recover from the toxicity of the THC marijuana cannabis within 12- 24 hours after the treatment. In severe cases, The effect of the THC in dogs will take longer than normal. Some pets take about 1 to 2 days.
Can dogs have small doses of THC?
There are many thoughts about the use of THC for dogs. But what we concluded is to not use the THC in any form for your canine, even a small dose. Because the benefits are very less and the chances of risk and toxicity are very high, we recommend you to not feed any new food, remedy, oil or plants to your puppy without your vet’s recommendation.
How many mg THC is safe for dogs?
According to pet experts and nutritionists, a very tiny amount of THC can cause Obvious effects on your dog. The toxic effects depend on the size, breed and overall health of the canine. An estimated amount of 0.5mg-2mg of THC will be enough to cause toxic effects in your dog.
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