Research on pet CBD is ongoing, but do vets recommend CBD for pets? This is a question every pet parent wants to know. A go-ahead from the vet makes the decision process easier and gives pet parents confidence. Continue reading to understand whether vets recommend this beneficial drug.
Why Are Vets Reluctant to Discuss CBD for Pets?
Most vets across the globe are limited when it comes to discussing CBD for pets. Here are some of the reasons.
Certain state-specific regulations restrict what veterinarians can say about pet CBD.
The individual states are in control of this regulation on pet CBD, as they have been with so many ambiguous federal regulations.
Depending on where you reside, there may or may not be clear guidelines based on the vet’s input about CBD for pets. These regulations range from being extremely strict—any veterinarian who even brings up CBD could face sanctions—to being relatively permissive.
An excellent example is the California Bill, which dictates how vets can discuss CBD for pets with pet owners. The legislation permits veterinarians to discuss cannabis for medical purposes but forbids them from recommending or prescribing cannabis-derived wellness products.
Even though they are different, the bill fails to distinguish between marijuana and hemp; instead, it lumps all cannabis-related items together. THEREFORE, discussing CBD for pets with pet owners is still a vague topic in most states.
Breaking the rules can lead to serious consequences.
A medical board grants veterinarians their state-issued licenses. They must adhere to the key standards to keep their license and continue to practice. They might face disciplinary action and potentially have their license canceled or revoked if they decide to talk about CBD or, even worse, suggest it as a resource for an animal’s welfare. To stay in the industry and provide their animal patients with high-quality care, vets must take their obligations seriously.
There are few clinical studies on CBD for pets.
Most veterinarians cannot discuss CBD for pets because they have no supporting research to prove it works. There is limited published scientific research on the advantages of pet CBD oil for cats and dogs.
Because investigation takes time, some vets might be hesitant to talk about CBD while still awaiting the results of more thorough studies. Numerous studies, like one at Colorado State University on the effects of cannabidiol on epileptic dogs, are now being conducted.
There is no mention of pet CBD and vets in the 2018 Farm Bill.
The 2018 Farm Bill removed hemp from the list of restricted substances and was a game-changer for the CBD business generated from hemp. This gave producers of hemp CBD more freedom. Still, the legislation included no recommendations regarding how to use these products medically, much less make any reference to veterinarians or CBD for animals. Veterinarians may hesitate to talk to you about CBD for dogs due to legal and regulatory ambiguity.
You still need to talk to the vet about your pet’s CBD.
It’s important to start discussing with your pet’s veterinarian, even if there are several restrictions on what they can tell you regarding CBD for pets. In addition to having the training and expertise to understand the relevance of your pet’s medical history and how it affects them, veterinarians have essential medical information about them, especially their medical history.
If you do not know where to start, these guidelines will help:
- Ask about the vet’s experience with CBD: Veterinarians might be able to offer anecdotal data on pets who have taken CBD, as well as advice on how to administer CBD oil to dogs. Even your veterinarian might have used CBD on their dogs. Veterinarians are frequently thrilled to talk about the advantages of using products for dogs after having experienced them themselves.
- Ask for resources: The vet may not have all the information, but they can help you find information online and do further research.
Does CBD actually work on pets?
Yes. CBD works for dogs. Although there is limited research on CBD and pets, the drug contains cannabinoids, which reduce the risk of seizures, pain, stress, anxiety, and inflammation.
Read more on 5 Stunning Reasons Why Pet Parents Are Turning to CBD.
Do vets give dogs CBD?
No. Most vets do not recommend CBD for dogs. The state regulations, dire consequences, and lack of strong evidence restrict most vets from prescribing CBD oil and other products for dogs.
Do vets recommend CBD oil for cats?
No. Like their counterparts, cats are pets, and vets do not recommend CBD. This is because the 2018 farm bill doesn’t mention vets and pets when giving guidelines on CBD.
How often can I give my dog vet CBD?
The daily dosage varies with your dog’s unique health needs and weight. Some dogs need CBD multiple times. Giving them CBD every 8-12 hours is the best way.
Do dispensaries sell CBD for dogs?
Yes. Most cannabis dispensaries and pet stores sell CBD for dogs. The 2018 federal law permits retailers to sell CBD-rich hemp products with a THC content of no more than 0.3%.
Does CBD oil help reactive dogs?
CBD doesn’t just numb your dog’s anxiety. Instead, It produces a sense of calmness by working with serotonin receptors. This alleviates your dog’s fear and anxiety reactivity while making them feel protected.
Can I give my dog CBD powder?
As long as they come from the hemp form of the cannabis plant, all CBD products are completely safe for your pet. Always make sure the CBD has THC levels below 0.3%.
Final Thoughts
There you have it. Most vets do not recommend CBD for pets. This is due to the different state-specific regulations, the failure of the 2018 farm bill to include pets and vets, the dire consequences to vets, and the lack of sufficient clinical evidence supporting CBD for pets.
This does not, however, mean you cannot discuss pet CBD with the veterinarian. Discussing with them gives you highlights on this healthy drug. The vets also know where to find the correct pet CBD information. Consulting the vet before introducing CBD to your pet gives you a clear picture of CBD.