03/09/2026
I felt the need to post a reminder to all pet parents-spring is coming (this week feels like it has already arrived). I want to extend a reminder to most specifically our pet owners with dogs who either have free rein in a fenced yard, or go on walks around the neighborhood where humans frequent the premises, or fences are not tall enough to prevent things being tossed into your yard. Your dog may come across any number of things that can cause harm if ingested. Most specifically "w**d", cannabis, THC are often the culprit when suddenly Mr. Fido is not acting "right". It only takes a 10 second sniff and grab to ingest a foreign substance that will cause harm. It may be in a discarded butt, gummy, in a pouch - you name it, it has been dropped or thrown away!
Symptoms can range from mild lethargy, twitchiness, frequent urination ( dribbling or urinating more often) over reacting to movement light, sound and appearing disoriented and possibly non-responsive.
The other BIG DEAL in a case where ingestion is a clear probability is TELL THE TRUTH. We don't care about your personal life. WE DO Care about your pet and his or her health or survival. If the tech or doctor asks about medications, w**d or anything, TELL THE TRUTH. Let us know if there are cardiac meds, antidepressants, ADHD meds that might have been ingested -literally any medication can become a source for
toxicity, and the sooner we find out what we are treating and can get started, the more likely your pet will be able to go home with you and expect a full recovery!
Happy Spring and enjoy those walks.
Your Team at Hampton Roads Veterinary Urgent Care
