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 rushed him to the vet after seeing his condition worsen while heading home from Railtown Park near the High Level Bridge.
During the Uber ride to the hospital, Clifford’s condition deteriorated, prompting Vecchio to keep him awake. At the animal hospital, the vet suspected opioid toxicity and administered naloxone, leading to Clifford’s full recovery. Vecchio mentioned that the vet’s diagnosis didn’t surprise her, given the prevalence of open drug use in downtown Edmonton.
Dr. Jami Frederick, president of the Alberta Veterinary Medical Association, noted an increase in opioid ingestion cases among pets in Edmonton, particularly during the summer when people walk their pets in public areas more frequently. Frederick’s team encounters opioid toxicity cases around once or twice a month. She recommended pet owners carry a naloxone kit when out with their pets and seek immediate veterinary care if opioid ingestion is suspected.
The City of Edmonton responded that they couldn’t confirm if the incident was reported to them but mentioned their routine grass maintenance schedule. Vecchio expressed plans to avoid high-risk areas for open drug use during walks with Clifford and to closely monitor his interactions with the environment. She emphasized the importance of Clifford’s well-being, stating, “He means the world to me; I love him.”