If your best friend isn’t comfortable and happy, chances are you aren’t either. That’s especially true when it comes to furry companions like dogs, cats, and horses. Pet owners are discovering that cannabis oil for pets is a new treat that has been shown to also help with many health concerns.
You’ve probably seen a variety of cannabis-based products that are specifically designed for pets. However, even though cannabis is legal in California both recreationally and medicinally, the law also states that veterinarians are unable to sell or even prescribe cannabis for pets. There are proposals that may soon change this—and for good reason.
Top Animal Organizations Support Cannabis
The American Kennel Club’s Canine Health Foundation has recently partnered with Colorado State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences on an in-depth study of cannabis-derived products as a treatment for epilepsy in dogs. They want to show the benefits scientifically so that they can use the research to further relax regulations.
The AKC experts report that pet owners will give cannabis oil to their pets orally once or twice a day. These pets had symptoms of inflammation, heart conditions, nausea, a lack of appetite, anxiety, and cancer.
The AKC also said there was anecdotal evidence from dog owners suggesting it can treat pain, especially neuropathic pain, as well as helping to control seizures. This is why they are funding the research.
Cannabis Oil for Pets is Safe
PetMD, an online journal written by veterinarians, quoted a California vet who confirmed that cannabis oil is safe for cats, too. The reason is that some of the main active ingredients in cannabis are also produced naturally within all bodies of mammals. Any animal with a spinal column has what is known as the endocannabinoid system.
This bodily system was discovered by scientists less than 30 years ago. Its function is to support the endocrine system, which operates the glands and produces hormones for many different bodily tasks.
A body uses natural chemical compounds called cannabinoids to help keep all functions of the endocrine system running smoothly. Cannabis also happens to have these compounds. In plants, they’re called phytocannabinoids. Research shows these plant compounds, which include CBD and THC, function in mammals in a similar way. This is important when the body is undergoing internal or external stress, which makes additional support of the body needed. That’s where cannabis oil comes in.
Experimentation May Be Needed
Since the federal law regarding cannabis continues to conflict with state laws, there is no official dosage or serving size. You are able to legally discuss using cannabis oil for pets with your veterinarian, and you should.
When trying cannabis oil with your pet, you should start with small amounts in relation to the pet’s body weight. Keep in mind that too little will not provide the results you seek, while too much can be toxic. This is why cannabis oil is preferable over edibles as a method of delivery for your pet, as they may accidentally eat too many.
Be aware of how your pet responds to the cannabis oil, and adjust as needed until they are comfortable—and you both are happy.