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Opioids and Pets - What You Need to Know

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The opioid crisis is a significant problem in many nations, and it leads to very dangerous addictions. You may not know, but your beloved pets can also fall victim to these powerful drugs and the effects caused by taking too much of them. Whether they were prescribed by a vet or they ingested it under unforeseen circumstances, you should take the situation very seriously. Every pet owner should know if their pet is hooked on opioids and what they should look for and do about it.

 

How it Happens

Obviously, your pet can't precisely buy its own opioids to take, so they get it from elsewhere. Usually, these are opioids that have been left lying around that they ingest out of curiosity. It's up to you to make sure that you leave opioids only in safe or secure places, or else they may overdose on them or build a dependency on the drug!

 

Signs and Symptoms

If your pet gets hooked on opioids, they will show obvious signs of it and often change how they behave. As the owner, you should be pretty aware of how they usually act, so look out for any discrepancies in their routine. Check where you keep your medicines and see if there are any missing before going into panic mode. Generally, they will display symptoms almost immediately, especially if they overdosed on the drugs.

 

 

  • Physical and Mental Dulling: After getting hooked on opioids, your pet will behave outside the norm. They will appear almost as if they have been subdued or are incredibly groggy. Not only will they be physically slow, but their mind will also be dulled from the powerful drugs. They may respond slower than usual and not get excited or react to anything. In severe cases, they may even fall into a dangerous coma.
  • Vomiting: Pets have a natural instinct to vomit anything terrible that they ingest. If they consume too many opioids and begin feeling bad, they may start to throw up. Don't assume that this will cure them, as the drugs are most likely already in their bloodstream at that point.

 

 

Treatment

If you suspect your pet is hooked on opioids, you absolutely need to immediately take them to the vet. The vet will assess the situation promptly and provide emergency care if required. In the future, you need to prevent your pet from taking any opioids and store them in safe and secure locations. Remember that you are your pet's caretaker, and their safety is in your hands!

 

Treat Your Pets at Sabal Chase

Sabal Chase Animal Clinic is passionate about helping your pets live happy and comfortable lives. We know how scary pets getting hooked on opioids can be and how to help them recover. Our staff is experienced in routine care as well as complex medical procedures. Don't worry about your pet, and give us a call for any of your veterinary needs!

 

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