Warning as THIRD dog rushed to vets with suspected cannabis poisoning
Last updated 26th Jun 2024
Dog owners in our region are being urged to be extra vigilant following a spate of suspected cannabis poisonings.
A three-year-old cockapoo needed veterinary treatment following the latest incident in Berwick.
Nessie became "spaced out" and was "wobbling on her legs" after swallowing something during their walk along the beach at Spittal.
Owner Brenda Menzies, who lives in Tweedmouth, said: “It was a frightening experience and really worrying as Nessie looked really poorly. It has taken her a little while to get it out of her system but she is much better in herself.
“She must have found it under the park bench and I’ve been telling other dog walkers I meet to be careful. Another lady who takes her dog into the park found some equipment used by people using cannabis.
“Nessie loves her walks and it gets me out of the house, but we are being extra cautious and I’m watching her every move.”
READ MORE: Courtroom drama sees business suspended at Selkirk
GalaEdin Vets - which has practices across the Borders - revealed it's the third case of suspected cannabis poisoning reported to them in recent months.
Nessie was given activated charcoal to reduce the toxic effects of the drug, and spent the night on fluids following induced vomiting.
READ MORE: Motorcyclist dies following collision with HGV on A7
Vet Kirsty Morrison said: "Dogs that have eaten cannabis tend to fully recover within 24 hours but, if they have swallowed a large dose, they can show clinical signs for days.
“We have had a few cases lately and it can be distressing for owners, especially owners like Mrs Menzies who had been enjoying a walk and her dog picked up the cannabis someone had dropped and ate it.
"Nessie was disorientated and not aware of her surroundings. She was wobbly and her legs were sliding away from under her, and it must have been very upsetting for Mrs Menzies.
“I would urge owners to be extremely cautious on walks and to seek veterinary help if they think their pet has eaten cannabis or anything else that may be toxic.”
The latest incident has been reported to police.
Meanwhile, anyone who suspects their dog has eaten cannabis is urged to contact their vet immediately.
What are the signs of cannabis poisoning in pets?
Tell-tale signs a dog may have eaten cannabis may include:
⦁ Aggressive behaviour
⦁ Uncoordinated and disorientated
⦁ Barking
⦁ Hallucinations
⦁ Reduced heart rate
For more stories from the Scottish Borders and North Northumberland, bookmark our new home page - https://hellorayo.co.uk/greatest-hits/borders/news/