Cannabis and Canines

Due to its legal status for use in humans, we get a lot of questions about use of CBD oils, hemp and cannabis use in pets. In people, cannabis is used for pain relief, anti-anxiety, seizure control and many other things. Since our pets can suffer from these conditions as well, it is only logical that people would want to try this for their pets as well. 

The problem is very little is known in regards to the use of CBD and THC in pets. Research is extremely limited, and drug interactions are not well-described and safe dose ranges are completely unknown. THC toxicity is a concern and toxic dosage is unknown. Compounding that is the fact that most products available do not accurately label or guarantee what is in their products and in what concentration. 

Veterinarians, by law, are unable to prescribe or recommend the use of cannabis in pets. However, for your information we have included links to current research below. This includes sources with e POTENTIAL parameters for safety. Remember that there is only limited information for cannabis/CBD/hemp and related products and that all research currently available is performed in humans, not dogs. 

CSU Research Trial:  Orthopedic pain trial

http://csu-cvmbs.colostate.edu/vth/veterinarians/clinical-trials/Pages/efficacy-of-cannabidiol-for-the-treatment-of-osteoarthritis-in-dogs.aspx 

Dr. Gaynor, DVM:  The following website has a product tested in a lab and is guaranteed to be without contaminants. It is not supposed to contain THC. 

https://peakvetscom.vetmatrixbase.com/istore/5113_nutraceuticals.html 

Boulder Hemp Company: Sold as Earth Buddies Tincture.  Local hemp grower and manufacturer that claims to have extensive quality control testing. It is not supposed to contain THC. 

https://www.earthbuddypet.com/online-store or participating retailers (Petzlove in Lone Tree) 

The use of dispensary products without guaranteed analysis is not recommended. If you choose to seek them out, please make sure you have:

1. Clear labeling of contents in total milligrams of CBD per bottle and per milliliter

2. Clear labeling of whole plant product (not to be confused with full spectrum) 

3. Organic production of hemp

4. Testing for contaminants: both chemical and biological 

5. Clear indication if THC is present in the product and the ratio of CBD to THC. 

Above all use caution.