đź’§ Dogs, LSD, and autism

PLUS, meet the "Blue Dream" of shrooms

Welcome back to The Drop In! Thanks for diving into our newsletter and cannonballing down the digital rabbit hole of psychedelic journalism, courtesy of DoubleBlind. Today we’re talking about dogs on acid.

Yes, you read that correctly: Dogs on LSD. It’s a weird sentence to write. However, researchers recently dosed a bunch of K9s to understand if LSD can “ameliorate the social symptoms of autism.” You’ll have to read the story below to understand the study’s nuances — like who these pups tripped with and why. (For the record: We don’t endorse giving psychedelics to animals. But are we going to report on it happening in the context of science? Absolutely. We wouldn’t be doing our jobs if we didn’t!)

If you keep scrolling, you’ll find other stories on Trinity mushrooms (which is often called the “Blue Dream of shrooms”), Amsterdam’s last mushroom lounge, iboga being illegally sold online, and so much more. 

Come hang with us on Sunday if you’re around! We’re hosting a workshop with Psychedelics Today on working with psychedelics for trauma. Sign up here.

🌥🍂 Happy autumn 🍂🌥

Mary CarreĂłn
Senior Editor

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Whether you’re a doctor, nurse, or mental health professional, our program equips you with the tools to integrate psychedelic therapy into your practice.

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Researchers Gave Dogs LSD to Better Understand Its Impact on Autism

Scientists gave dogs LSD to explore how it might boost brain synchronization in social situations for individuals with autism.

In a fascinating new study, researchers gave dogs LSD to explore how it might impact Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), particularly by improving brain synchronization during social interactions. The study found that, with the help of LSD, dogs and humans experienced a stronger neural connection—especially during moments of eye contact and petting. This could mean LSD has potential to boost social engagement for individuals with ASD, who often face challenges with social interactions. 

It’s the first time brain synchronization has been observed between two species, and the results are promising for future autism treatments.

Want to dive deeper into the details? Read the full story here!

Our Latest

New research is raising critical questions about the true effectiveness of psychedelics in treating depression. A study from Taiwan suggests that only high-dose psilocybin may be more effective than traditional antidepressants like Lexapro. With the spotlight on psychedelics as a mental health breakthrough, this analysis digs into the placebo effect and the role of psychotherapy in enhancing outcomes. Could the hype be overshadowing the science? Click here to get the full scoop and explore the latest findings now! 

The Trinity mushroom strain is making waves in the underground mycology world, hailed as the “Blue Dream” of shrooms. But is its trendiness a good thing? With roots in three potent strains—Penis Envy, Aztec God, and Tidal Wave—this Psilocybe cubensis hybrid is catching attention for its unique lineage and alleged high potency. Mycologist Doma Nunzio shares the fascinating history behind this strain and what makes it so special (or not!). Click here to dive into the story now and decide for yourself if Trinity lives up to the hype.

MDMA is more than just a party drug—it's a powerful tool for healing, connection, and self-discovery. We’re exploring 9 thought-provoking quotes from leading experts like Alexander Shulgin, Julie Holland, and Michael Pollan, who shine a light on the profound potential and risks of MDMA in therapeutic and recreational contexts. Click here to get inspired by their words and dive into the world of MDMA through the perspectives of those spreading its wisdom today.

& More Must-Reads

Join Us

Are you ready to explore how psychedelics can help you heal from trauma and create lasting change? 

Join us this Sunday, September 29 for a workshop with Kyle Buller from Psychedelics Today and our host Monica Cadena. During the workshop, you’ll gain insight into: 

đź’ˇ Best practices for using psychedelics to heal trauma 

đź’ˇ How these powerful medicines aid in emotional healing 

đź’ˇ Integration techniques to help you grow and thrive

This workshop is FREE + on-demand recording is available when you sign up for a 1-month free trial to DoubleBlind+ (cancel anytime). 

Click here to register and join us live on Sunday, or get the on-demand recording.

Learn with Us

🍄 Everyone thought Panaeolus cinctulus was poisonous, and then they realized it was magic. Here’s what you need to know about this mushroom.

🚨 Finding psychedelics is always risky in an era of prohibition. Here's how you can journey without breaking the law.

📍 Navigating the world of psychedelic retreats can be challenging—how do you know you've found a good place? Here's where to look for help.

🦵From ayahuasca to iboga, and even synthetic compounds, people are turning to psychedelics to treat physical pain, in addition to mental health. Here’s what you should know.

Together With…

"TheraPsil is where humanity, integrity, and community meet." – Meg Houghton, MSW, Toronto

TheraPsil is Canada’s leading psychedelic therapy training program, offering courses for healthcare professionals around the globe. Their in-person and online training equips you with the tools to integrate safe psilocybin and MDMA-assisted psychotherapy into your practice.

DoubleBlind Digs

Here are today’s recommendations to help you live more psychedelically… 

  1. What’s better than tasty shroom gummies for focus, energy, and stress? How about funky free gifts too! Troop’s Super Pack Bundle comes with a free mushie disco ball and 30 days of the Open Meditation App. It’s the perfect combo for mind, body, and spirit. Click here for 20% off!*

  2. Ready to challenge your assumptions? Breaking Bias by Anu Gupta is a must-read for anyone wanting to unlearn conscious and unconscious biases. Packed with practical tools, it’ll help you see yourself and others in a new light. Grab your copy here and listen to Anu’s meditation from Issue No. 10 here.

  3. Save this ambient electronic playlist for your next mushroom trip! Designed to envelop the listener in a sound that can be both engaging and unobtrusive, ambient electronic music is perfect for meditation, relaxation and an ideal atmosphere for your trip. Click here to listen on Spotify.

  4. Do you want to move more effortlessly throughout your day? Microdosing might be for you and we’ll teach you how to get started. Whether you're looking to boost creativity, focus, or overall well-being, our course gives you all the tools you need to start your microdosing journey. Sign up today and get 25% off with code MICRODROPIN. Discount expires in 48 hours!

*We may make a commission from purchases using this link. Affiliate partnerships help fund our independent journalism.

Watch Now

What’s the deal with shroom tolerance?

Whether you’re curious about trying shrooms for the first time or you’re an experienced psychonaut, you may be wondering about how building a tolerance to shrooms will affect your trip. Here’s something funny about this famous fungus: if you trip on Saturday, you’ll be disappointed if you try again on Sunday. Your brain won’t have it.

Around the Web

  • As contaminants in the drug supply increase the risk of fatal overdoses, experts recommend that more individuals, including cocaine and MDMA users, and public venues carry naloxone. Read more in The Guardian.

  • Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI and cofounder of ChatGPT, recently shared that psychedelics have been one of the most transformative and life-altering experiences of his life.  Read more in Business Insider.

  • Artist Apryl Miller’s Upper East Side apartment is a psychedelic wonderland. Take a step inside. Read more in the New York Post.

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