Cannabis and Pets: Understanding Risks & Safe Hemp Use

Interest in cannabis for pets is growing, but so are reports of accidental exposures. The American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association (AHVMA) published a 2018 review of adverse effects of cannabis in animals, which offers valuable insight for pet parents. Here’s what you need to know about safety, symptoms, and the difference between marijuana and hemp-derived products like Hemp Well®.

What the AHVMA Report Found

The paper reviewed veterinary case reports and poison control data related to cannabis exposure. The vast majority of cases involved dogs accidentally ingesting THC-containing products such as edibles, discarded joints, or human medical marijuana. FULL REPORT HERE

Most Common Clinical Signs

Loss of coordination (ataxia)
Lethargy or extreme sedation
Urinary incontinence
Disorientation or tremors
Hypersensitivity to sound or touch
Low heart rate (bradycardia)
Vomiting

In severe cases, pets required hospitalization for supportive care such as IV fluids, temperature control, and monitoring until symptoms resolved.

Marijuana vs. Hemp: Why It Matters

The AHVMA report emphasizes that THC is the compound causing most adverse effects. Hemp, on the other hand, contains less than 0.3% THC and is non-psychoactive. Products like Hemp Well soft chews and oils are formulated to deliver beneficial cannabinoids and omegas without getting your pet “high.”

✅ What Safe Hemp Products Look Like

Made from certified organic hemp
Contain zero or trace THC (non-psychoactive)
Third-party tested for potency and purity
Clear dosing instructions by pet weight

Explore: Relief CBD Soft Chews • Calm Dog Soft Chews • Hemp Omega Oil

What to Do if Your Pet Eats Cannabis

If you suspect your pet has ingested marijuana or THC products:

Call your veterinarian or an emergency vet clinic immediately.
Provide as much information as possible (type of product, amount, time since ingestion).
Do not try to make your dog vomit unless directed by a vet.

Most pets recover fully with prompt care, but severe cases can require 24-48 hours of hospitalization.

Responsible Hemp Use for Pets

While the AHVMA report highlights the dangers of THC intoxication, it also points out that pet owners are increasingly interested in cannabis-derived supplements for wellness. Responsible use of hemp products — free of intoxicating THC — can support calm behavior, joint comfort, and overall balance.

Key Takeaways for Pet Parents

Store cannabis products safely out of your pet’s reach.
Use hemp products designed for pets with weight-based dosing and third-party testing.
Work with your veterinarian before adding new supplements, especially if your pet is on medication.

Cannabis & Pets — Frequently Asked Questions

Is hemp safe for dogs?

Hemp products formulated for pets with non-psychoactive levels of THC (≤0.3%), clear weight-based dosing, and third-party testing are generally well tolerated when used as directed. Always consult your veterinarian, especially for puppies, seniors, or pets on medication. Explore pet-formulated options at Hemp Well.

What are the symptoms of THC poisoning in pets?

Common signs reported in veterinary literature include ataxia (loss of coordination), lethargy or extreme sedation, urinary incontinence, disorientation, tremors, sound/touch sensitivity, bradycardia (slow heart rate), and vomiting. If you suspect exposure, contact your veterinarian or an emergency clinic immediately.

What’s the difference between marijuana and hemp for pets?

Marijuana products contain elevated THC (the intoxicating compound) and pose a risk of toxicity if ingested by pets. Hemp contains ≤0.3% THC and is used to make non-psychoactive, pet-formulated supplements (e.g., hemp-derived CBD) with clear dosing and third-party testing.

What should I do if my dog or cat eats cannabis?

Call your veterinarian or an emergency clinic right away and share the product type, estimated amount, and time since ingestion. Do not induce vomiting unless your vet specifically instructs you to do so. Most pets recover with supportive care, but prompt treatment matters.

How do I choose a safe hemp product?

Look for pet-specific formulas that are organic, third-party tested, clearly labeled for cannabinoid content, and provide weight-based dosing directions. See: Relief CBD Dog Soft Chews, Calm Dog Soft Chews, and Hemp Omega Oil.

Bottom line: Cannabis exposure can be dangerous for pets — but safe, properly formulated hemp products offer a way to support your dog, cat, bird, or horse naturally, without the psychoactive effects of THC.

Reference: American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association, “Adverse Effects of Cannabis in Animals” (2018), Vol. 52.