Marijuana contains cannabidiol (CBD) and other chemical compounds, but it is known for its high levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the substance that causes a psychoactive or “high” effect in humans and dogs. Richter explains that small amounts of THC may be useful for some dogs, warns against giving it to your dog because it is difficult to dose and too much can be toxic. There have also been studies evaluating the effectiveness of cannabis in treating arthritis in dogs. A recent study from Cornell University showed a reduction in pain scores in dogs with arthritis, with no negative side effects, when treated with CBD versus placebo.
4 In a more practical sense, many veterinarians and pet owners have seen the positive effects of medical cannabis for treating arthritis and other forms of pain in animals. The research simply confirms what many of us have seen firsthand. Is marijuana safe for dogs, even in small quantities? In general, the consensus among the veterinary community is no. Research on marijuana and dogs has clearly shown that it is toxic to dogs.
When a person, dog, or other animal ingests cannabis, the molecules fit into the receptors of the endocannabinoid system. As a result, a person may feel the psychoactive effects of THC or, in the case of CBD products, a possible sense of calm or pain relief. Dogs, cats and other animals can also feel these effects. More research needed on the effectiveness of cannabis for pets.
CSU has launched a larger clinical trial for CBD in dogs, but Silver told INSIDER that these preliminary findings on CBD are promising. When buying CBD oil or other CBD products for your dog, look for products that have been tested by third parties, as the best CBD extracts undergo laboratory tests to determine their potency or strength. Puppies' pain levels were assessed using the Brief Canine Pain Inventory (CBPI), a method that analyzes how a dog's daily functions, such as walking, are affected by pain. Note that THC has been reported to cause seizures, so it should never be included in any CBD seizure control product.
A study by Cornell University School of Veterinary Medicine found that dogs that received CBD at a rate of 4.4 mg per pound twice daily for one month showed significant improvement in pain relief and quality of life. Although it is gaining popularity and is even available (as hemp oil) through major retailers, medical marijuana for dogs and CBD products for pets are a source of confusion. He hadn't considered medical marijuana for his pet, nor had he heard of CBD oil for dogs, but after coming across a product called Therabis at the Denver Pet Expo in August, he gave the hemp-based product a try. While there is anecdotal evidence that medical marijuana provides relief to dogs for arthritis and cancer, it is not approved by the American Association of Veterinary Medicine (AVMA), the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), or any other organization.
Trying to take a human-sized dose of cannabis and extrapolate the dose for animal use is an “invitation to disaster,” Richter warned, noting that excessive consumption of THC can cause serious health risks for pets. In this study from Colorado State University, dogs that received CBD for 12 weeks had 33 percent fewer seizures than those who received a placebo, but it didn't work for all dogs. Among this group, veterinarians were more comfortable recommending CBD for pain, anxiety and seizure management in dogs. THC and CBD extracts have been shown to provide relief in human patients with advanced cancer pain2, as well as those with nerve-related pain.
There are a growing number of companies that sell CBD oils for dogs, also called tinctures (liquid drops that you can add to your dog's food), capsules, topicals, and pet treats. .
