Tokyo the Labrador Rescued from Ben Nevis After Ingesting Discarded Cannabis

A black Labrador named Tokyo was rescued from the UK's highest mountain after collapsing from suspected cannabis poisoning during a family hiking expedition in Scotland. Owner Christina Bluhme, a professional dog trainer, called emergency services when her five-year-old dog lost use of her hind legs and drifted in and out of consciousness partway up Ben Nevis. Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team volunteers responded and successfully stretchered Tokyo down the 4,413-foot peak to a local veterinary clinic, where she recovered fully.

The Incident on Ben Nevis

Bluhme was hiking with her son Magnus and another dog, a two-year-old golden Labrador named Blaze, when Tokyo began showing signs of severe distress approximately one hour before reaching the summit. The dog trainer initially suspected a spinal injury or disc problems related to the climb, but Tokyo's rapid deterioration—including loss of consciousness—prompted her to seek help. Heavy rain complicated the situation, making it impossible for Bluhme to carry her 25-kilogram dog down the mountainside alone.

A fellow hiker recommended contacting emergency services. The Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team, fortuitously stationed nearby after attending another emergency at the summit, arrived quickly and placed Tokyo on a stretcher. Bluhme assisted in bringing her dog safely down the mountain, after which she immediately drove Tokyo to a local veterinary facility in the area.

Diagnosis and Recovery

Veterinary staff rapidly identified Tokyo's symptoms as consistent with cannabis toxicity rather than physical injury. Blood tests confirmed the diagnosis, and the clinical signs became unmistakable when Tokyo's body temperature was taken—a distinctive cannabis odor was detected. Bluhme described the smell as comparable to standing near someone smoking cannabis. Tokyo made a complete recovery following veterinary treatment.

Bluhme praised the rescue team's professionalism and expressed gratitude for their intervention. In a public statement, she emphasized the importance of pet owners recognizing that discarded drugs and other toxic substances can appear in remote outdoor locations, even popular hiking destinations. The Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team confirmed Tokyo's full recovery and commended the local Crown Vets clinic for their care and expertise.