ANIMALS ENDOCANNABINOID SYSTEM

From an evolutionary perspective, the endocannabinoid system is quite old. All higher forms of animals have an endocannabinoid system, and it is even found in many primitive forms of life such as slugs.

Just as in humans, the complex web of neurotransmitters in the endocannabinoid system is involved in physiological processes such as appetite, pain sensation, mood, and memory. While the overall function of the endocannabinoid system is similar in all animals, there are differences between species.

Dogs are particularly unique with regard to the endocannabinoid system because they have a greater concentration of endocannabinoid receptors in their brainstem and cerebellum than any other species does. These structures within the brain control heart rate, breathing, and muscle coordination. The dramatic response seen when dogs ingest excessive levels of cannabis containing THC is due to the high concentration of cannabinoid receptors as well as their relatively smaller size.