With the increasing prevalence of cannabis products, especially edibles, accidental ingestion by pets is a growing concern. Knowing how to respond swiftly and effectively can make all the difference. Here's a guide to navigating the critical first two hours after your pet consumes an edible:

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0-30 Minutes: Deciphering the Danger

• Identify the Edible: Not all edibles are created equal. Determine the type of edible consumed:
  
  • Ingredients: Xylitol (artificial sweetener), chocolate, and certain spices can be highly toxic to pets, independent of THC content.
  • Packaging: Foil or cellophane wrappers pose a choking hazard or can cause intestinal blockages.
  • Psychoactive Components: Does the edible contain THC* (the psychoactive compound in marijuana), CBD (generally considered non-toxic to pets), or both?‍_‍

‍_{*Contact Your Veterinarian: If the edible contains THC, contact your vet immediately. Even if it contains only CBD, it's wise to inform your vet and monitor for unusual behavior.}

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‍30 Minutes - 1 Hour: Monitoring for Marijuana Toxicity

• Size Matters: A small amount of THC might not affect a large dog, but can be significantly more potent for a cat or small breed.
• Key Symptoms: Watch for these telltale signs of marijuana toxicity:
  
  • Vomiting: This is the most concerning symptom due to the risk of aspiration (inhaling vomit into the lungs). Seek immediate emergency veterinary care if your pet vomits.
  • Dilated Pupils*
  • Excessive Drooling*
  • Low Blood Pressure* (may appear weak or lethargic)
  • Disorientation or Incoordination*_‍

‍_{*Contact Your Veterinarian: If your pet exhibits any symptoms other than vomiting, contact your veterinarian for advice on whether emergency care is necessary. If it's after hours, err on the side of caution and visit an emergency clinic.}

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‍1-2 Hours: Following Veterinary Guidance & Providing Comfort

• Professional Advice: By now, you should have contacted your veterinarian or an emergency clinic. Follow their instructions carefully.
• Comfort and Calm: Even without severe physical distress, a pet experiencing THC intoxication can be frightened and confused. Provide a quiet, safe space, offer gentle reassurance, and monitor closely for any changes in their condition.
• Prevent Future Incidents: Secure all cannabis products in airtight, childproof containers and store them in locations completely inaccessible to your pets. Never leave edibles unattended, even for a moment.

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Prevention is Paramount:

The best way to manage this situation is to prevent it altogether. Responsible storage of all cannabis products is essential for protecting your pets. Remember, curiosity can quickly turn into a medical emergency. Be proactive, be informed, and be prepared to act quickly to ensure your pet's safety.

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