Cocaine causes rare heart block in Chihuahua
Cocaine caused a Chihuahua's heart to block and nearly shut down, a rare effect veterinarians should be aware of.
Why it matters
- Cocaine can cause dangerous heart issues in dogs
- Vets should consider cocaine exposure in cases of unexplained heart block
By the numbers
- 2-year-old, 5.5-kg male Chihuahua affected
- Heart block resolved after treatment with atropine and epinephrine
- Cocaine and metabolites found in urine
The big picture
- Cocaine exposure in pets is rare but can be life-threatening
- More research needed on cocaine's effects in dogs
What they're saying
- Concern and surprise over a dog's cocaine exposure
- Some question rarity of this effect given cocaine's known impacts
Caveats
- Single case report; more research needed
- Exact dose and route of cocaine exposure unknown
What’s next
- Further studies on cocaine's effects on dogs' hearts could help vets treat similar cases