The number of dogs becoming ill from accidentally consuming THC-containing cannabis products is – like the dogs – becoming higher, according to data from a new University of Guelph study.

According to experts, the increase in cannabis-intoxicated canines is directly linked to the increased legalization and/or decriminalization of the drug across North America in recent years.

“We found in the data that there was an association between a reduction in penalties for cannabis use and possession and dogs being poisoned with cannabinoids,” the study’s lead author Mohammad Howard-Azzeh said in a press release. “There is some evidence to suggest these poisoning events are increasing in the U.S.”

The research team studied data from calls to the Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) via veterinary database AnTox, which “stores comprehensive clinical animal toxicology data related to those calls, identifies and characterizes toxic effects of substances in animals” gleaned from reports from veterinarians and pet owners.

While cannabis consumption is rarely fatal for dogs, even consuming small amounts of the drug – whether by inhalation or, more commonly, by eating it – the results can still be extremely serious. Dogs can experience symptoms such as loss of balance, urinary incontinence, vomiting, breathing problems, seizures, tremors, or even a coma. Symptoms can appear as long as 12 hours after ingestion, and in some cases can last for days.

Although the results are based on U.S. data, clinicians say the results are also reflective of the situation in Canada.

“We have evidence that dogs are being exposed to cannabis more frequently throughout the study,” explains Howard-Azzeh. “If there’s more cannabis in the environment, there’s more opportunity for dogs to eat it.”

Researchers hope that increasing awareness of the issue will help jolt the public into action.

“We hope this study spreads awareness of the potentially harmful effect cannabis may have on dogs and highlights the need for people to better safeguard these types of products from vulnerable populations,” said Howard-Azzeh

What can you do to protect both your beloved pup and your pot stash?

• Transfer cannabis products to paw- and snout-proof containers such as glass jars with secure, twist-off lids as soon as you bring them home. This has the added bonus of keeping your products fresher.
• Keep your stash our of reach of your dog. A tall cupboard or closet are good options. “Dogs are not very discriminating in what they eat and are known to snatch food from kitchen counters and bedside tables as well as eat things off the floor or ground,” notes Howard-Azzeh.
• Don’t throw your roaches on the ground. Make sure to properly dispose of any leftover stems, joint ends, and other trash where your (and other) dogs won’t get curious and be tempted to have a taste. Empty ashtrays promptly after use. Keep a tight lid on the trash can.
• Don’t smoke in a confined space with your dog. Dogs can be affected from second-hand smoke.
• If you suspect your dog has consumed cannabis products, contact your veterinarian immediately.