In the June 26 letter titled “Zip the dog likely didn’t consume marijuana,” I am concerned the author has inadvertently misinformed readers.
He refers to the effects on dogs by stating: “Cannabis does change your mind, after all, and having that happen for no apparent reason is frightening.”
This implies a mild change in mental state that might agitate a dog. The THC in cannabis is, in fact, toxic to dogs and cats, and can lead to a myriad of nasty neurologic, cardiac and gastrointestinal effects, including, albeit rarely, death. CBD oil, on the other hand, is currently under study in dogs and cats for positive medicinal effects. The key is to get a pure CBD product that a third party has tested and proven to be free of THC and actually contains the labeled product in it.
The most qualified person to give you advice is your veterinarian. I do, however, agree with the author that all edibles should be kept far away from children and pets!
Dr. Ellie Shelburne
The author is a veterinarian in Northampton.