Unbelievable Encounter: Pet Goose Accidentally Consumes Marijuana Joint

The Peculiar Case of Gertie the Goose

In an unexpected incident that had both pet owners and veterinary professionals raising their eyebrows, a pet goose named Gertie became the center of attention after accidentally consuming a marijuana joint. The occurrence, which coincided with the celebration of 4/20, raised significant concerns about pet safety and the increasingly common exposure of pets to cannabis products.

The alarming call was made by Gertie's owner to the Pet Poison Helpline. Dr. Renee Schmid, a senior veterinary toxicologist with the helpline, recounted the amusing, yet serious nature of the case. "Although dogs are more frequently involved in marijuana exposures, this particular goose-related call gave us goosebumps," she said with a chuckle. "Gertie had quickly gobbled up a joint that accidentally fallen to the floor. We advised the owner to take her to a veterinary hospital for monitoring and prompt treatment."

Upon arrival, the medical team performed a procedure known as crop lavage with saline. This technique is essential for birds, as the crop is a storage pouch located at the base of their esophagus. It allows for the safe removal of ingested substances before they reach the stomach. Given the limited data concerning cannabis exposure in geese, the Pet Poison Helpline utilized existing information from other bird species to determine the best course of action.

While monitoring Gertie, the veterinary professionals kept a watchful eye for clinical signs that could arise from marijuana poisoning. Notably, such symptoms include lethargy, a dazed look, lack of coordination, and possible changes in heart rate or neurological activity. These manifestations have been frequently observed in canines and felines who have ingested THC, and it was anticipated that Gertie could exhibit similar symptoms.

Dr. Schmid emphasized the serious implications of accidental THC exposure for pets, regardless of owners' personal cannabis use. "Even if you're not a consumer, your pets can be affected by marijuana. With the prevalence of marijuana usage across various states, the likelihood that your pet could encounter this substance is increasing. Friends or family might unintentionally bring it into your home, or your pet could encounter cannabis in outdoor areas like parks. We previously heard of a dog that inhaled brownies left unattended in a neighbor's yard."

The rise in legalized cannabis has led to an astounding 430% increase in THC-related incidents reported to the Pet Poison Helpline from 2019 to 2023. The organization has seen cannabis products shift from the eighth to the sixth position on their annual Top 10 list of pet poisons. The psychoactive ingredient, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), is linked to these concerning trends. Dr. Schmid cautions, "As marijuana products evolve with new hybrid strains and stronger potencies, pet owners must be vigilant in keeping any THC-infused products away from both pets and children."

To mitigate these risks, Pet Poison Helpline has initiated the Toxin Tails campaign, which aims to disseminate vital information about various poisoning hazards pets face. The stories shared within this program, including Gertie’s amusing ordeal, all include animals that have successfully recovered after receiving appropriate treatments.

For pet owners and veterinary practitioners alike, the lesson from Gertie's tale is clear: awareness and precaution are essential when it comes to pets and potentially harmful substances. As cannabis laws continue to evolve, vigilance in protecting our furry friends from unwanted encounters with marijuana is more crucial than ever.

In conclusion, while Gertie the goose's tale brought forth smiles, it serves as a stark reminder of the responsibilities pet owners hold in preventing such mishaps. This incident has captured the attention of veterinary professionals, pet owners, and the broader community, highlighting the intersection of recreational trends and animal health safety.

If you find yourself in a similar predicament, the Pet Poison Helpline is always available 24/7 to lend a helping hand to distressed pet owners navigating the hazardous effects of poisoning, be it from cannabis or other toxic substances.