Valeria Vecchio was strolling with her dog Clifford in a downtown Edmonton park when she noticed a sudden change in his behavior. Clifford, a one-year-old poodle and Cavalier King Charles spaniel mix, became lethargic, had pale gums and tongue, and started vomiting. Concerned that he might have ingested something harmful, Vecchio hurried him home from Railtown Park near the High Level Bridge.
As Clifford’s condition worsened, with slowed breathing and heart rate, Vecchio rushed him to the vet in an Uber, anxiously ensuring he stayed awake during the ride. The vet suspected opioid toxicity, and after administering naloxone, Clifford recovered fully.
Vecchio was not surprised by the vet’s diagnosis, attributing it to the prevalence of public drug use in downtown Edmonton. Dr. Jami Frederick, president of the Alberta Veterinary Medical Association, stated that opioid ingestion in pets is increasingly common in the city, especially during the summer when people walk their pets in public areas more frequently. Frederick’s team encounters opioid toxicity cases about once or twice a month.
To prevent such incidents, Frederick advised pet owners to carry naloxone kits when out with their pets and seek immediate medical help if opioid toxicity is suspected. She emphasized the importance of monitoring pets closely and seeking veterinary care for observation and potential redosing of naloxone.
The City of Edmonton, in response to the incident, mentioned its regular grass maintenance schedule but couldn’t confirm if the incident was reported. Vecchio expressed intentions to be cautious about choosing walk locations, avoiding high-risk areas for drug exposure. She also emphasized her commitment to monitoring Clifford’s surroundings carefully, highlighting the significance of his well-being.
Vecchio’s dedication to Clifford’s safety was evident as she vowed to take extra precautions to protect him from potential dangers, emphasizing the importance of his health and happiness.