Jodiann H. was alarmed when her two-month-old puppy, Chestnut, began vomiting and shaking one early June morning, just weeks ago.

Jodiann lives in Astoria, Queens, near the ASPCA Community Veterinary Clinic by The Rachael Ray Foundation™. By 8:30 that same morning, she was at the clinic with Chestnut.

“Our medical team was able to accommodate Chestnut and begin treatment for what appeared to be moderate symptoms from toxin exposure,” says Crystal Jordan, director of the clinic.

“Jodiann told us Chestnut had been outside and got hold of what looked like a cigarette,” says Dr. Evelyn Cintron, a veterinarian who examined Chestnut.

Minutes later, senior veterinary assistant Tatiana Medyanik, flagged that the toxin in question was probably THC, also known as tetrahydrocannabinol, the psychoactive component of marijuana.

Tatiana Medyanik, senior veterinary assistant, left, and Alondra Cruz, licensed veterinary technician, examine Chestnut, whom Tatiana suspected had been exposed to THC.

“While it’s not typically life-threatening, animals who are exposed to THC usually develop urinary incontinence and are very sensitive to touch and movement, and Chestnut exhibited these symptoms,” says Dr. Cintron. “Our main worry was that he could aspirate from vomiting.”

Chestnut was also ataxic, a condition characterized by a lack of coordination and balance and a clumsy gait. His glazed eyes darted from one side to another.

“Ataxia signals a problem with the nervous system, specifically in the areas that control movement and balance,” Dr. Cintron says. “Chestnut was very unsteady, and that can be dangerous.”

A Treatment Plan

Chestnut was placed on an IV catheter, and over the next four hours received supportive fluids that flushed the toxins from his system. He also received medication to manage his nausea and vomiting.

Left, Chestnut received supportive care and returned days later for a follow-up visit and vaccines.

“Usually within 24 to 48 hours, toxins wear off,” says Dr. Cintron. “Chestnut stayed comfortable and safe in a cozy, dark kennel that allowed the supportive care to work. “

Before he was discharged that afternoon, Chestnut’s ataxia and many of his other symptoms had resolved.

“He was much better and less clumsy, and we were comfortable with Jodiann continuing to monitor him at home,” Dr. Cintron says.

Understanding the Dangers of Concentrated Cannabis

While marijuana ingestion is not usually life-threatening to pets, Dr. Cintron emphasizes that paying attention to the concentration of toxins is important in keeping pets safe from marijuana.

“Concentrated marijuana resins and vape pens have much higher doses of THC than just the butt of a cigarette, for example,” she says. “If pets ingest products with higher concentrations or larger quantities, more serious symptoms, such as low blood pressure, seizures, aspiration and even death, can occur.”

The ASPCA’s Tatiana Medyanik, senior veterinary assistant, left, and Dr. Priscila Naula examine Chestnut during a follow-up visit.

Even though Chestnut experienced no further problems, he returned to the clinic days later for vaccines and will be back again for neuter surgery.

“Everyone was relieved his condition was not life-threatening,” says Dr. Cintron. “We were glad to be in a position to help.”