Are you watching what your pets are getting into—at the park or at home? A warning from a pet insurance company highlights the dangers of cannabis for cats and dogs.
Trupanion says it has seen over 1,800 claims for marijuana toxicity since cannabis was legalized in 2018.
“Wow, I’m surprised. I didn’t realize that number was so high,” said one local.
The news may come as a surprise to some at the dog park on Friday, but it’s no shock to Dr. Darrell Dalton, a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine at Town Centre Veterinary Hospital, who has noticed an uptick in recent years.
“When it wasn’t legal, people were more careful about making sure it was put away,” said Dr. Dalton. “Now that it’s legal, they’re probably not as careful.”
Trupanion shared cannabis-related claims from five provinces since 2020, with the majority coming from B.C. and Ontario. Nova Scotia and Newfoundland and Labrador are on the lower end, with Alberta sitting right in the middle.
Dr. Dalton told CityNews that some people may think their pet should just “ride out” the experience, but he says it’s important to get your dog or cat to a vet as soon as possible.
He explained that animals have a much lower tolerance for cannabis, which can lead to mobility issues, loss of bladder control, and seizures.
“You don’t know what else is in that cannabis product—there may be other drugs included that could be even more dangerous to the pet,” said Dr. Dalton.
Trupanion says the average cost of a cannabis-related vet visit last year in Alberta was $524, but Dalton notes it can run into the thousands if there are complications.
Those at the park say this serves as a good reminder to stay vigilant.
“I’m very aware because I’ve seen so many sad stories,” said one local.
“Just be more conscientious and be safe—because not only pets, but kids too, can get into it, eh,” said another.
