A hike up the UK's highest mountain turned into a frightening ordeal after a black Labrador named Tokyo reportedly became seriously ill after allegedly eating discarded cannabis during the trek.
The five-year-old dog suddenly lost the use of her hind legs, drifted in and out of consciousness and had to be carried down Ben Nevis on a stretcher by a mountain rescue team before receiving emergency veterinary treatment, reports BBC.
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Fortunately, Tokyo made a full recovery within a day, but her story has become a stark reminder for hikers to leave no trace behind and dispose of litter responsibly.
Dog's routine hike on Ben Nevis takes a terrifying turn
Tokyo was hiking Ben Nevis in Scotland with her owner, professional dog trainer Christina Bluhme, when the walk suddenly turned into an emergency.
While descending the 1,345-metre (4,413-foot) mountain, the Labrador became weak, disoriented and unable to use her hind legs. She also drifted in and out of consciousness, making it impossible for her to continue the journey.
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Realising the situation was becoming critical, Bluhme called the Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team for help.
Rescue volunteers climbed up to Tokyo's location and carefully secured the 32-kilogram Labrador onto a stretcher before carrying her across the steep and rocky terrain.
Sharing details of the unusual rescue on social media, the Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team said, "The team received an unusual call-out to assist in the rescue of a dog from Ben Nevis."
The team added that Tokyo "had become incapacitated after allegedly eating something she shouldn't have." After reaching the base of the mountain, Tokyo was rushed to Crown Vets in Fort William for emergency treatment.
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Veterinarians suspect cannabis toxicity
According to veterinarians, Tokyo was most likely suffering from cannabis toxicity after allegedly ingesting discarded marijuana somewhere along the hiking trail.
Although the exact source could not be confirmed, vets believed exposure to cannabis was the most likely explanation for her sudden collapse.
Tokyo received supportive treatment, including activated charcoal to reduce the absorption of toxins. She recovered fully within 24 hours and was able to return home the following day.
Owner thanks rescuers after Tokyo's recovery
Following the rescue, Christina Bluhme expressed her gratitude to everyone who helped save Tokyo.
"I just want to say a massive thank you to the Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team and Crown Vets in Fort William for helping us get Tokyo safely off the hill and back to full health," Christina Bluhme told BBC.
She also described the rescue volunteers as "absolute heroes."
The Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team later confirmed that Tokyo was doing well, writing, "We're delighted to hear that Tokyo has made a full recovery and is back to her usual energetic self."
Why cannabis is especially dangerous for dogs
Veterinary experts say dogs are far more sensitive to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound found in cannabis, than humans. Even small amounts can affect a dog's nervous system and lead to symptoms such as:
- Weakness
- Loss of coordination
- Difficulty walking or standing
- Excessive drooling
- Vomiting
- Tremors
- Drowsiness or unconsciousness
Most dogs recover with prompt veterinary care, but severe cases can become life-threatening if treatment is delayed.
