A black Labrador named Tokyo was recently rescued from the peak of Ben Nevis after suffering a severe reaction to cannabis she ingested on the mountain trail. Her owner, Christina Bluhme, experienced sheer panic as her beloved pet began losing consciousness halfway up the UK’s tallest mountain. Fortunately, the dedicated volunteers of the Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team were able to carry the dog to safety, where she later made a full recovery.
Incident Overview
Christina Bluhme, a dog trainer from Esher, Surrey, was enjoying a hiking trip in Scotland when the distressing incident occurred. As they climbed to an elevation of 4,413 feet (1,345 meters), Tokyo suddenly lost the use of her legs and began drifting in and out of consciousness. Recognising the gravity of the situation, Bluhme sought immediate help.
The Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team responded swiftly, transporting the unconscious dog down the mountain on a stretcher. Once they reached the base, Tokyo was taken to a local veterinary clinic in Fort William, where she was treated for her condition.
A Grateful Owner’s Reflection
Reflecting on the harrowing experience, Bluhme stated, “It was one of the most frightening days I’ve ever experienced. I genuinely thought I was going to lose her.” She expressed immense gratitude towards the Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team for their heroic efforts. “Without their incredible support, there is simply no way I could have got her safely off the mountain,” she added.
Tokyo, who weighs around 25kg, was too heavy for Bluhme to carry alone, making the rescue team’s intervention crucial. The dog trainer felt “incredibly lucky” that her pet had survived the ordeal and commended the rescue crew and veterinary team for their “compassion and dedication,” saying, “You were there when we needed you most.”
The Risks of Cannabis for Dogs
Vets Now, a veterinary service provider, has highlighted the dangers associated with dogs ingesting cannabis. They explain that dogs possess more cannabinoid receptors in their brains than humans, making them more susceptible to the effects of marijuana. Symptoms of cannabis ingestion in dogs can manifest within 30 to 90 minutes and may include loss of balance, stumbling, inability to stand, excessive drooling, dilated pupils, and glassy eyes.
In a similar incident from 2024 in Somerset, two dogs were left incapacitated after consuming human waste containing cannabis while walking in a nature reserve. Such incidents serve as a stark reminder of the potential hazards lurking in outdoor environments.
A Call for Caution
Bluhme has urged fellow dog owners to remain vigilant about the risks posed by discarded drugs and other toxic substances in natural settings. “It was something I never imagined we would encounter,” she remarked, emphasising the unpredictability of outdoor adventures.
The Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team echoed her sentiments, expressing satisfaction that Tokyo had made a full recovery and thanking the local vet team for their assistance. A spokesperson for the team noted, “It’s now suspected that Tokyo, a usually very fit and active working dog, had ingested something that made her critically unwell.”
Why it Matters
This incident highlights the often-overlooked dangers that pets can encounter in seemingly safe outdoor spaces. As pet ownership rises, the responsibility of ensuring the safety and well-being of our animals becomes increasingly paramount. Awareness of potential risks, such as discarded drugs, is essential for dog owners who wish to enjoy the great outdoors without jeopardising their pets’ health. This cautionary tale serves as a reminder that vigilance is key to preventing similar incidents in the future.
