Dr. Serbin Featured on Arizona’s Family Channel to Raise Awareness on Pet Safety
We are proud to announce that our Medical Director, Dr. Serbin, was recently featured on Arizona’s Family Channel to shed light on an important issue affecting our beloved pets: the dangers of marijuana and other drugs. With a sharp increase in cases of pets ingesting harmful substances, it's more critical than ever for pet owners to stay vigilant and informed.
In the interview, Dr. Serbin discussed the growing concern of pets accidentally ingesting marijuana, especially with its rising use across households. Symptoms of drug ingestion in pets can range from mild to severe and may require urgent medical intervention. Dr. Serbin shared expert advice on how to recognize signs of poisoning, as well as essential steps to take if you suspect your pet has ingested a harmful substance.
Watch the full interview here
Ever since recreational marijuana became legal in Arizona, there has been an increase in the number of pets that have needed medical attention for ingesting the drug.
Pets ingesting marijuana has resulted in thousands of calls to the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center nationwide, including hundreds from inside Arizona.
“It’s usually a few a month, but there will be times where it will be a few a week,” said Ingleside Animal Hospital Medical Director Dr. Brian Serbin.
According to the ASPCA, in 2020, the year before the first sale of recreational marijuana in Arizona, the state made 143 calls to the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. In 2021, that number jumped to 247 and climbed to 273 in 2022 before slightly dipping to 213 in 2023.
“It can cause problems with slowing down heart rate, lowering blood pressure. If it’s a severe enough intoxication, it could lead to seizures,” explained Serbin.
According to the ASPCA, an animal that has ingested marijuana can show symptoms ranging from depression to urinary incontinence.
“Usually, they’re just going to ride it out, but they need supportive care,” said Serbin.