June 1st, 2016
Just Say No to Pets on Pot
Greenhill Humane Society urges pet parents to be mindful around marijuana
Eugene, OR: On Thursday, June 2nd, recreational use of marijuana edibles becomes legal in the state of Oregon. This means that anyone 21 years and older can purchase extracts, edibles, and topical products at any marijuana dispensary.
Greenhill Humane Society urges pet parents to become familiar with new guidelines provided by the Oregon Veterinary Medical Association to reduce the potential risk of marijuana poisoning to dogs and cats.
“We want people to be aware that marijuana is potentially dangerous for animals,” says Cary Lieberman, Executive Director of Greenhill Humane Society. “Edibles pose a particular risk, as many pets are so food motivated. We hope people who choose to have it in their homes and around their pets will be mindful and responsible, and seek veterinary care if their pet ingests anything.”
- Keep all marijuana plants, and especially products and foods containing marijuana, away from pets. Secure storage in pet-proof containers or locked cabinets is recommended.
- If your pet ingests marijuana, seek veterinary care promptly. Inform your veterinarian what your pet has ingested so that proper care can be administered.
- Pets can be affected by marijuana by inhaling smoke, ingesting the plant, or ingesting products or food containing marijuana. When foods also contain chocolate, the risk of poisoning is increased.
- Pets may show symptoms within 30-60 minutes of inhalation or ingestion. Symptoms may include glassy eyes, lack of coordination, disorientation, dilated pupils, drowsiness, agitation or excitement (in dogs), urinary incontinence, vomiting, tremors, seizures or unconsciousness.
- Consult your vet before giving your pet any medication, herb or supplement. The efficacy of marijuana as a treatment for pets is being studied, but has not been scientifically established, nor has a therapeutic dosage been determined.
Information provided by the Oregon Veterinary Medical Association.
