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After treating my dog's cancer with cannabis, he's still alive — more than three years after a vet said he'd die

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  • Kai, still a very good boy.

Ever since I wrote about using cannabis to treat my dog's cancer last year, people have continued to ask about him. I'm happy to report Kai is still alive — three and a half years since a vet said he would be dead.

Back in April 2016, Kai had some big tumors on his body and was hardly able to move. The doctor said even if he operated they would return in a few months, and without the operation he would die by June or July.

I took him home feeling bad about it. Then I started giving him Rick Simpson Oil — a medication derived from cannabis. He perked up and the tumors stopped growing, though they never went away.

He still gets cannabis of some form every day. For most of that time it's been RSO, although it's sometimes been hard to find. When he doesn't get it for a few days he's visibly dragging along.

I prefer RSO with high CBD but also a significant amount of THC. But that's been pretty much impossible to find the past few months — which is strange, because there seems to be CBD everywhere these days. The market seems to be taking it out of the RSO.

Now I use a little RSO with high THC, along with some CBD isolate on a dog biscuit with a little peanut butter. Peanut butter is probably Kai's favorite thing to eat.

I've got to say that I thought I was just easing the passage of what I thought would be Kai's last days, but it's been lasting a while. The doctor said operating would cost $5,000 and the tumors would come back. I've probably spent near that amount on cannabis for him over the years. He's still got the bumps, but they don't seem to bother him.

As the weather turns cold every fall, he slows down and I tell myself he's not going to make it through the winter. So far he's been there in the spring each time. It's cooling down now. About a week ago he laid around and didn't move much for a couple of days. Then he livened up the next few days. It's like that. He's an old dog. We'll see what the spring brings.

You can read more about research on cannabis and cancer here.
 
Cannabis oil brought dog back from brink of death - and now he's loving life
“It’s completely unbelievable how a few drops of oil can make such a difference to an animal’s life"

A pet owner who was faced with the heartbreaking decision of whether to put her beloved dog down after he was given just days to live says cannabis oil saved his life.
Vicky Horton, of Torquay, had almost given up hope of saving her Labrador springer cross Milo after he was diagnosed with pancreatitis.

She was told to prepare for the worst by vets after conventional treatment was not working.

However, after a friend suggested giving him some drops of CBD oil from the CBD Lab in Torquay, his prognosis turned around within just 48 hours.

Seven months on, Milo is still on the CBD oil and recently celebrated his 15th birthday. Now the family are all going on holiday together in their campervan to help Milo enjoy in his twilight years.

Vicky Horton and Milo

Vicky Horton and Milo (Image: Vicky Horton)

Vicky, who has had Milo since she was 16 and had him at her wedding, said: “Milo was taken seriously ill on the Monday with pancreatitis. It is a very serious condition in dogs, especially older dogs. He spent two nights at the vets on a drip, and we were told to prepare ourselves for the worst.

“Milo didn’t cope well at the vets and kept pulling his drip out. He was also very confused and unsettled due to the drugs he was on, so they decided to discharge him on Thursday evening as they thought he would be better off at home.

“When we collected Milo I’m sure he didn’t even recognise us. He was weeing himself constantly, his back legs had given way, he was disorientated and he hadn’t eaten since Sunday. The vet said again on discharge that we should prepare ourselves for the worst.


“We came home and slept in the lounge with Milo, feeding him water through a syringe and trying to tempt him with food, but he wasn’t interested. Trying to get the painkillers down him was a battle and the Tramadol made him foam at the mouth as it tasted so horrible.

“We visited the vets on Friday to top up Milo's injection painkillers and antibiotic, and visited again on Saturday to do the same. By the Saturday we had nursed Milo non-stop for 48 hours and he hadn’t improved.

“He had lost 4kg in weight and we believed we were being cruel by keeping him alive.

"That evening we had decided we couldn’t put him through any more suffering as he wasn’t improving, so would need to think about making that heartbreaking decision.”

It was then Vicky’s husband remembered some friends used CBD oil to treat their dogs and was recommended to go to the CBD Lab.

Around 6pm that evening they gave Milo eight drops of CBD oil. Within three hours he had his first proper wee in three days. By 11pm he was asleep and resting for the first time in four days.
By 6am the followin
g morning he was eating a plate of chicken, which was the first food he had eaten for six days.

Milo is now enjoying a new lease of life thanks to CBD oil

Milo is now enjoying a new lease of life thanks to CBD oil (Image: Vicky Horton)
Vicky said: “As the hours passed by he improved; he was eating, drinking and weeing more. We gave him five drops of oil every six hours and he has shown no sign of pain since.

“Finally we stopped all prescribed painkillers as they were making Milo so confused and distressed. It only took 48 hours to turn the whole situation around.

“If you look at Milo today running around the block, scoffing plates of chicken and wagging his tail it’s really surreal to think that we almost made a decision to end his life.
“It’s completely unbelievable how a few drops of oil can make such a difference to an animal’s life."

Up until September last year, CBD shops were able to supply pet owners with products to make their pets lives a little easier.

However, the Veterinary Medicines Directorate then issued a statement saying that veterinary products containing (CBD) are veterinary medicines and should be regulated which has halted the trade.

Jess Dale, co-owner of the CBD Lab, said: “How fortunate that the story has a happy ending, but with results like this, why has the Veterinary Medicines Directorate decided to take this course of action? There is no evidence that CBD Oil is harmful, yet it is now an offence to administer ‘unauthorised product containing CBD without a veterinary prescription’ under Regulation 8 of the VMR.

“As they themselves state it has medical benefits so why withhold this from general use? Pet CBD and human consumption CBD contain exactly the same ingredients.”

The statement issued by the Veterinary Medicines Directorate in September 2018 states: “We consider that veterinary products containing Cannabidiol (CBD) are veterinary medicines and should be regulated as such.

“We have made this decision on the basis that products containing CBD fulfil the following definition of a veterinary medicine in the Veterinary Medicines Regulations (VMR) by virtue of the effects they have ‘any substance or combination of substances that may be used in, or administered to, animals with a view either to restoring, correcting or modifying physiological functions by exerting a pharmacological, immunological or metabolic action, or to making a medical diagnosis’.”
 
Could CBD treat dog cancer? Ontario vet college to study cannabis and canines

TORONTO -- An Ontario university is set to undertake a three-year study in treating dog cancer with cannabis.

The University of Guelph’s Ontario Veterinary College said in a news release Tuesday that the research could “help point the way to alternative pet therapies.” The study will focus on the efficacy of cannabidiol (CBD), a cannabis compound, in treating bladder cancer in canines, with particular focus on a common and “hard-to-treat” form known as urothelial carcinoma.

“Veterinarians and pet owners have been eager for information on the medical applications for cannabis,” said vet college dean Jeff Wichtel in the statement. “This groundbreaking work will help us learn about the role of cannabinoids in cancer and advance this field of medical research in Canada.”

Urothelial carcinoma tumours are difficult to remove in surgery for both humans and dogs, with about 20 per cent of human cases presenting more difficult surgical scenarios. In addition to identifying new treatment for animals, the new study “could ultimately help in designing potential therapeutic options for the more aggressive form of bladder cancer in humans,” said lead researcher Professor Sam Hocker in the statement.

The research will look at whether CBD can kill cancer cells, and how the substance works in circus with radiation and chemotherapy treatment.

While medicinal cannabis is used to treat humans for a variety of health issues, there are currently no legal and licensed cannabis products for veterinarians to prescribe, a fact that some groups are trying to change. The Canadian Association of Veterinary Cannabinoid Medicine is one non-profit group lobbying for legislation and “species-specific research” like the new University of Guelph study.
 
Is CBD Safe for Dogs? 5 Benefits CBD Has for Your Dog

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Cannabidiol, or CBD for short, is becoming wildly popular as an over-the-counter health supplement for both people and their pets.

However, many people still do not fully understand what CBD is, how it works or how to take it for the best results.

Even as more veterinarians and animal health advocates promote CBD for dogs, some pet owners continue to wonder "Is CBD safe for dogs?" Here, it is only natural you want to be sure whatever you give your precious furry best friend is safe, healthy and beneficial.

So let's take a closer look at CBD for dogs - is it safe? If so, what benefits can it offer your pup?


What Is CBD, Exactly?

CBD stands for Cannabidiol, which is the main active ingredient in a certain plants in the Cannabis genus of plants.

And here is where a great deal of the confusion lies. As the National Institutes of Health (NIH) explains, different plant varietals have different types of active compounds

In some cases, this difference is native - naturally-derived. In other cases, this difference is cultivated - human-made. In other words, some varietals of Cannabis have never been found growing wild, but rather have been domesticated by botanists to have higher concentrations of certain active ingredients

What is important for you, the dog owner, to know is that the varietal that is strong in CBD, or Cannabidiol, is different from the varietal that is strong in THC, or delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, the active ingredient in marijuana that creates the notorious "high.

No plant in the Cannabis genus will ever be completely void of either CBD or THC, and besides these two compounds, there are literally hundreds more that are still being examined and studied by botanists.

But CBD products made from plant varietals (often called "hemp") that are high in the active ingredient CBD, which does not cause a "high," must also have 0.3 percent or less THC content to be sold legally as an over-the-counter product or health supplement in the United States.


Is CBD Safe for Dogs?

CBD taken on its own has many potential health benefits for both people and pets. However, it is important to know that use of CBD is still in its infancy and a lot that is not yet known.

For this reason, always talk with your dog's veterinarian before starting your dog on XO Hemp CBD. Start with the very lowest possible dose until you see how your dog responds

CBD can be taken in a variety of forms. Using oil, tincture or liquid ensures you can carefully control the dose

This is why the American Kennel Club veterinary staff recommends CBD tincture, oil or liquid over any other form for use with dogs.

Common temporary short-term side effects of using CBD with dogs can include dry mouth, drowsiness and low blood pressure. There may be other side effects that are not yet documented so always watch your pup carefully.


5 Potential Benefits of CBD for Dogs

These are five of the best-known and most promising potential health benefits of CBD for dogs.


1. Epilepsy.

Dogs can get epilepsy just like people can. And just like some people don't find relief of symptoms from traditional medications, so too can some dogs continue to suffer from drug resistant epilepsy.

In 2017, the Canine Health Foundation announced a clinical study to explore the use of CBD to treat canine epilepsy.

Since nearly one-third of dogs with epilepsy do not find relief with traditional canine medications, this study provides new, fresh hope to epileptic dogs and their owners.


2. Pain.

According to PetMD, one of the most important potential health benefits CBD has for canines is in the area of pain management.

Many traditional medications used for pain relief in canines come with strong side effects. In some breeds that have higher known sensitivity to drugs, these side effects can even be deadly.

For this reason, the search continues for alternatives to help ease pain in canines, whether from surgery, injury, cancer, illness or some other reason. CBD can moderate pain symptoms without the side effects of traditional pain relievers by blocking messages about pain sensations at their source - in the brain.


3. Arthritis.

Arthritis is another health condition that dogs and their people share in common. Along with pain, arthritis can trigger stiffness, lameness and sometimes immobility.

Cornell University conducted research to determine the impact of CBD therapy for dogs afflicted with osteoarthritis. The double-blind study results were extremely promising.

Dogs that were given the CBD (versus the placebo) showed significant improvement to quality of life with significant reduction of pain.


4. Stress and anxiety.

While some dog breeds can cope with periods of alone-time, other breeds cannot tolerate this hardly at all.

For dogs that have been abused or traumatized, or puppies removed from the litter too early in life, managing more severe separation anxiety can often make the difference between a new forever home and euthanasia.

CBD is now being studied as an aid to stress and anxiety in dogs, whether from separation anxiety specifically or from some other source, like seasonal fireworks.

The Canine Journal reported that CBD shows promise as a treatment for canine separation anxiety, general anxiety and stress.


5. Gastrointestinal distress.

More and more dogs are presenting with gastrointestinal (GI) distress. For many dogs, GI distress is associated with food or environmental allergies. In some dogs, GI disturbances can be linked to emotional anxiety or stress.

In still other dogs, the cause of GI distress comes from other health issues such as colitis, gastritis or inflammatory bowel disease.

When dogs experience gastrointestinal distress, it can lead to loss of appetite and weight loss, aggression or depression and plenty of elimination issues.

Some veterinarians are now recommending CBD as a potential aid to alleviating the symptoms of GI distress in dogs.


If you would like to try CBD for your dog, start by talking with your canine veterinarian. You may just discover CBD provides for improved life quality, reduced pain and a happier pet dog!
 
https://stonerthings.com/cbd-dogs-cannabis-may-help-canines-arthritis/

CBD for Dogs? Cannabis May Help Canines with Arthritis, Study Reveals
By
Ben Walker
-
Jul 15, 2020

Animal testing has long been controversial, not just because of the harm it can do to animals but because the science is questionable. After all, humans and other animals are different species — what works for one isn’t necessarily going to work for the other. In a twist, it seems humans may have clued in researchers to the benefit of cannabis for dogs. In this case, humans were the guinea pigs, not actual guinea pigs (or dogs). Since humans find arthritis relief with cannabis, researchers wanted to know if CBD could help dogs, too.
It’s no surprise to dog owners that dogs can get less able to play as they age due to a variety of factors, but osteoarthritis can develop just a year after birth and progressively get worse as a dog ages. Forbes reports that there’s research showing canine cannabis use could help with the symptoms of osteoarthritis.
Noting that this doesn’t cure the condition, which involves a loss of mobility and pain due to inflamed tissues around bone joints, researchers did see a positive impact from CBD use in dogs who suffered from osteoarthritis. In fact, a doctor involved in the study said he was surprised by the results.
It seems that CBD helps dogs with the stiffness and pain associated with osteoarthritis, but it can take higher doses for the effect to make a significant impact in behavior. Really, behavior is all we have to measure the results of these studies with. Dogs can’t tell us they’re feeling certain levels of pain, but their willingness and ability to play is a key indicator of how much or little pain they’re feeling.

Researchers designed the study using a group taking placebo, and groups taking low and high doses of CBD. It appears the high-dose CBD group fared better by far, with dogs reportedly appearing happier and more active than before. Even better, the positive outcomes lasted beyond the initial dose, sometimes weeks later. This improvement in quality of life bodes well for further study.
After all, the critics of animal testing point out how our different systems interact with our brains, and how even “close” relatives like primates may see wildly divergent outcomes when certain chemicals or compounds are tested. The endocannabinoid system is intricate enough to where we’re still learning about it and how it responds to various types of cannabis — it only stands to reason that we have a long way to go to understand how it works on other animals, too.
Meanwhile, expect this news to be happy not only for dog parents, but for marketers looking to promote CBD products. The study was funded by a company who makes just such products, but that’s not unusual in pharmaceutical studies overall. In the end, if it means healthier and happier dogs, it’ll be worth it. It’s great to see cannabis is a useful substance for humans and their best friends, really.
 
https://stonerthings.com/cbd-dogs-cannabis-may-help-canines-arthritis/

CBD for Dogs? Cannabis May Help Canines with Arthritis, Study Reveals
By
Ben Walker
-
Jul 15, 2020

Animal testing has long been controversial, not just because of the harm it can do to animals but because the science is questionable. After all, humans and other animals are different species — what works for one isn’t necessarily going to work for the other. In a twist, it seems humans may have clued in researchers to the benefit of cannabis for dogs. In this case, humans were the guinea pigs, not actual guinea pigs (or dogs). Since humans find arthritis relief with cannabis, researchers wanted to know if CBD could help dogs, too.
It’s no surprise to dog owners that dogs can get less able to play as they age due to a variety of factors, but osteoarthritis can develop just a year after birth and progressively get worse as a dog ages. Forbes reports that there’s research showing canine cannabis use could help with the symptoms of osteoarthritis.
Noting that this doesn’t cure the condition, which involves a loss of mobility and pain due to inflamed tissues around bone joints, researchers did see a positive impact from CBD use in dogs who suffered from osteoarthritis. In fact, a doctor involved in the study said he was surprised by the results.
It seems that CBD helps dogs with the stiffness and pain associated with osteoarthritis, but it can take higher doses for the effect to make a significant impact in behavior. Really, behavior is all we have to measure the results of these studies with. Dogs can’t tell us they’re feeling certain levels of pain, but their willingness and ability to play is a key indicator of how much or little pain they’re feeling.

Researchers designed the study using a group taking placebo, and groups taking low and high doses of CBD. It appears the high-dose CBD group fared better by far, with dogs reportedly appearing happier and more active than before. Even better, the positive outcomes lasted beyond the initial dose, sometimes weeks later. This improvement in quality of life bodes well for further study.
After all, the critics of animal testing point out how our different systems interact with our brains, and how even “close” relatives like primates may see wildly divergent outcomes when certain chemicals or compounds are tested. The endocannabinoid system is intricate enough to where we’re still learning about it and how it responds to various types of cannabis — it only stands to reason that we have a long way to go to understand how it works on other animals, too.
Meanwhile, expect this news to be happy not only for dog parents, but for marketers looking to promote CBD products. The study was funded by a company who makes just such products, but that’s not unusual in pharmaceutical studies overall. In the end, if it means healthier and happier dogs, it’ll be worth it. It’s great to see cannabis is a useful substance for humans and their best friends, really.
I've got two older dogs, and need to get to the dispensary for CBD for them. I need them ready to play with the young dog. She's wearing them out.
 
I've got two older dogs, and need to get to the dispensary for CBD for them. I need them ready to play with the young dog. She's wearing them out.
Libby my older girl has seizures and some hip problems, she does well on my cbd oil. When it's time for her "pill" which is a treat with cbd oil, the whole gang lines up. Even that little bastard Ozzy. :rofl:
 
@bulllee what dose do u give them? I picked up 2 Oz bottle, Cosmo exhibits mild anxiety particularly during storms, still not certain on dosage.
If anyone has an idea for 55lbs. Mutt? I started low at. 05ml to start.
 
Last edited:
If anyone has an idea for 55lbs. Mutt? I started low at. 05ml to start.
Does the CBD that you bought have a recommended dosage formula on the label? Starting low is always a good idea... and then working up to the manufacturer's suggested dosage.

This article recommends giving 0.2mg of CBD per pound. So, if your dog weighs 55 pounds, you’ll give him 10mg of CBD. But it all depends on the formula... for instance:

Here are some common formula strengths and how much CBD is in each:

75mg formula=2.5mg of CBD per ml of oil
150mg formula=5mg of CBD per ml of oil
300mg formula=10mg of CBD per ml of oil
600mg formula=20mg of CBD per ml of oil

So for a 25-pound pet who needs 5mg of CBD, you’d give him 2ml of the 75mg formula, 1ml of the 150mg formula, 0.5ml of the 300mg formula.

Granted this article is by a company that is trying to sell CBD products... but it seems to have good guidelines.
 
Yea mom good reference, I was thinking along these lines with recommeneded dosage.. No this is DIY CBD oil, low and slow to start.. I will up it to 5 or 10 suggested for weight.. I did notice he chilled with what I gave him.. Unless it's just me. Bugging out lol.
 
Okay... bottom line they're trying to sell you their brand of CBD oil.... but there's some good info here as well.

7 Crucial Things to Consider Before Giving CBD Oil to Dogs

If you follow natural health, you’ve likely heard of the exploding popularity of CBD oil for dogs. However, with its popularity comes a plethora of low quality sellers looking to make a quick buck. We put together this buying guide to help you choose a product that will make the most impact on your dog’s health.

#1 – Never Purchase a CBD Oil Without Examining a Current Certificate of Analysis (COA) for the Batch You’re Buying
A certificate of analysis (abbreviated COA) contains laboratory testing results of your CBD oil. Ideally, the certificate should show high amounts of CBD and zero THC.

If you cannot find a COA on the website of the CBD seller you’re considering, move on. Legitimate CBD oil brands will have nothing to hide. In addition, make sure you’re viewing the COA for the batch of CBD you will be receiving. Some sellers simply run a one time test don’t retest each batch.

You can view examples of CBD COAs here.

#2 – For Dogs, Choose a Product With Zero THC
Dogs are incredibly sensitive to THC. Most human and even pet CBD brands include a small amount of THC in their CBD oils.

Because of dogs’ sensitivity to THC toxicity, we strongly recommend purchasing a product that contains zero detectable THC on the certificate of analysis. Dogs react much differently to THC than humans, and although under .3% would never make human “high”, even trace amounts of THC can have negative effects on small animals.

#4 – Only Purchase an Organic Hemp Product & Check These 3 Tests
As many of us already know, buying organic matters more for certain kinds of plants. Because hemp has the unique ability to pull toxins from the soil, choosing an organic product is absolutely crucial. If a product is not organic, simply skip it and choose a better option.

In addition, make sure you review these 3 tests before purchasing. Any reputable brand will post them publicly for the batch of CBD you are buying:

  1. Microbial Test – Checking for pathogens like salmonella or E. coli.
  2. Heavy Metals Test – Looking for pollutants like lead. We’ve seen some sub-par products tested that contains 10x a safe level!
  3. Pesticides Test – Even if a product is organic, pesticide contamination from other crops in possible.
#5 – Low Price Is Always a Red Flag
If the price of a CBD oil is significantly lower than others, odds are the company is cutting corners on quality, or the amount of CBD is very low. Most likely, CBD priced very aggressively is extracted from the hemp using a less than ideal method, which results in less therapeutic qualities in the oil.

#6 – Beware of Products Labeled Only as “Hemp Oil”
Many manufacturers skirt regulations by not putting the term “CBD” on their product label, and call it only “hemp oil.” If you cannot verify the amount of CBD in a hemp product, DO NOT buy it. Again, this information should should be verified and located on the seller’s COA.

Also, note there’s a significant difference between “Hemp Oil with CBD” and “Hemp Seed Oil”. Hemp seed oil is a perfectly acceptable medium as long as it also contains added CBD. However, hemp seed oil alone does not contain enough CBD to be therapeutic.

#7 – Choose Full-Spectrum or Broad Spectrum and Not CBD Isolate
You may come across the term “full-spectrum CBD oil” or “CBD isolate”. A full or broad spectrum product uses the many cannabinoids and terpenes found naturally in hemp, while a CBD isolate product contains only CBD. We believe nature knows best, and using a product that more closely mirrors what nature designed is ideal. Many believe the whole plant offers an “entourage effect” where your dog benefits from a more complete variety of the phytochemicals found in hemp.

How to Choose an Effective Safe CBD Oil for Your Dog
The iHeartDogs team was consulted on the creation of the Cannanine™ brand of CBD Oil for Dogs. The brand offers unsurpassed testing and is the only product that supports animal shelters with each purchase. Every bottle provides 7 meals for shelter dogs!

If you’d like to dive deeper into the topic of CBD for dogs, we’d encourage you to visit our Ultimate Guide to CBD for Dogs. In this document we discuss most common uses, risks, side-effects, scientific studies, and much more.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The information on this website is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified healthcare professional.
 
Veterinarians Chime in on Cannabis Use as Medicine for Pets

The American Veterinary Medical Association dials into the promise and potential problems of medicinal marijuana for pets.

By Roland T. Flackfizer

It seems you can find cannabis derived products intended to treat pet ailments in just about every grocer, pharmacy, and head shop. There are legions of animal lovers that swear by the purported anti-inflammatory effects on the joints of aging and ailing pets. The value of the global CBD animal product market was valued at USD 27.7 million in 2019 yet is expected to see marked growth at a rate CAGR of 40% from 2020 to 2027. As with humans, a surge in ‘natural’ pet supplements has led to rapid market growth.

Until recently, there has been little consensus in the veterinary community as to the efficacy of these products given the historical lack of research on any cannabis applications. At a recent American Veterinary Medical Association symposium, in depth discussions were held questioning the research supporting the use of cannabis in veterinary care as well as potential adverse effects of cannabis and cannabinoid-based products marketed for pets. Also included in the conversations were whether a practitioner who recommends such a product for a patient risks ‘running afoul of the state licensing board, the Food and Drug Administration, or the Drug Enforcement Administration?’

These were just a few of the cannabis related issues at the inaugural AVMA Cannabis Symposium held Aug. 20-22 during the regular AVMA Convention — virtual for 2020 of course. Lectures were given on varying aspects of cannabis as a veterinary therapeutic as well as regulatory and toxicological concerns. There were multiple nods to cannabis’ potential as an analgesic or treatment for osteoarthritis in animals.

Below are a few of the speaker highlights from the AVMA:
“Thirty-three states have legalized marijuana for medicinal or recreational use by people—or both. And yet, none of these laws account for use of cannabis in veterinary medicine. California is the only state to specifically address veterinarians’ ability to engage with clients, indicating that veterinarians can discuss the use of cannabis for medical purposes with clients without being disciplined by the veterinary medical board solely for having that conversation. By that same statute, veterinarians are prohibited from prescribing, dispensing, or administering any cannabis or cannabis-based products. The statute does not address the therapeutic use of products derived from industrial hemp, which are covered under provisions of the state’s veterinary practice act applicable to diagnosing, prescribing, or administering a drug for prevention or treatment of an animal’s condition.

The Food and Drug Administration has approved only one cannabis-derived drug and three synthetic cannabis-related drugs, all for use in human medicine. No other cannabis, cannabis-derived, or cannabidiol product currently available is approved by the agency.

“We certainly recognize the potential opportunities that cannabis-derived compounds may offer and acknowledge the significant interest in these possibilities,” said symposium speaker Randall Gnatt, a senior regulatory counsel in the Office of Surveillance and Compliance in the FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine.

“We’re also aware that some companies are marketing products in ways that violate the federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act and then may put the health and safety of people and animals at risk,” he explained. “The agency is committed to protecting the public health while also taking steps to improve the efficiency of regulatory pathways for the lawful marketing of appropriate cannabis-derived products.”

Gnatt said the FDA is conducting a comprehensive evaluation of CBD and related products with a focus on educating the public about these products, informing the agency’s regulatory considerations of these products, and taking action when necessary to protect public health.

“We understand there’s high demand with consumers seeking out these novel products for a variety of perceived health-related or other reasons. But as the agency has stated before, we are concerned that some people wrongly think that the myriad of CBD products on the market have been evaluated by FDA and determined to be safe,” which, as Gnatt explained, isn’t the case.

“Other than the approved human prescription drug, we know little about the potential effects of sustained or cumulative long-term use of CBD,” Gnatt continued. “We don’t know about coadministration with other medicines or risks to vulnerable human and animal populations. This doesn’t mean that we know CBD is categorically unsafe under all circumstances, but given the gaps in our current knowledge and the known risks that have been identified, we’re not at a point where we can conclude that CBD products are safe for use.”

Little is known about the effects of cannabis and CBD on various nonhuman animal species, particularly with regard to the accumulation of residues in the edible tissues of food-producing animals. “There is a great need for more rigorous scientific research into both safety and potential therapeutic uses of cannabis-derived products for animals,” Gnatt said.

Conflicting federal and state laws either prohibiting or sanctioning medical marijuana or hemp-derived CBD can put veterinarians in a difficult spot. “Clients are able to get these products right down the street or through the internet, and they’re looking for advice from their veterinarian,” said Jim Penrod, executive director of the American Association of Veterinary State Boards.

“Penrod spoke during the cannabis symposium about the varying views among U.S. veterinary licensing boards about the issue. Marijuana was illegal for decades, he explained, adding that the drug was difficult to study given its classification as a Schedule 1 substance. When California legalized medical marijuana in 2006, the state “let the genie out of the bottle,” as it were, with the decriminalization process quickly outpacing the research.

“Because things are progressing so quickly and decisions are being made so quickly … I’m not going to give you the answers today. I’m not going to tell you that, ‘Yes, it’s fine for you to go talk about cannabis,’ or ‘It’s fine for you to dispense.’ I don’t have those answers,” Penrod said.

In 2019, the AAVSB surveyed state veterinary licensing boards about whether it is legal for a veterinarian to discuss cannabis with a client. Penrod said the association recently contacted those boards to determine whether they were still comfortable with the answers they gave in the 2019 survey, and several changed their answers.

Responses varied from one extreme to the other. Six states said veterinarians could lose their license if they even talk about cannabis, four said veterinarians need to adhere to federal law, seven said state boards can’t even provide legal advice, seven said they have no formal opinion on the matter, two said veterinarians could talk about cannabis but only if the client starts the conversation, 18 responded that veterinarians could discuss cannabis but could not prescribe or dispense it, and four said veterinarians could discuss the topic.

The position of the AAVSB is that veterinarians should be able to discuss CBD with a client to ensure animal and public protection. “That just makes sense,” Penrod said. “If a client comes in and says, ‘I’m going to use CBD on an animal,’ you should be able to talk to them about it, to warn them about some of the side effects, to watch out for those, to make sure that they’re purchasing a product that’s been analyzed and it doesn’t contain things like pesticides.”

The AAVSB has created a task force to create guidance documents for regulatory boards concerning the issue of cannabis. “Because things are changing so quickly, if we drafted regulations or practice law language, it could be out of date as soon as we published it. Guidance is a little more flexible,” Penrod said.

“Dr. Trina Hazzah is regularly questioned about cannabis use even though there are no cannabis products approved for therapeutic use in animals.

That is, clients frequently ask Dr. Hazzah, a veterinary oncologist working in Los Angeles whose area of interest is complementary and alternative medicine, about incorporating cannabis into their pets’ treatment protocols.

Dr. Hazzah, a founder and the co-president of the Veterinary Cannabis Society, offered her perspective on the therapeutic use of cannabis-derived products as part of the AVMA Cannabis Symposium.

As Dr. Hazzah explained, cannabis is primarily used with animals as an anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anti-anxiety, or anti-neoplastic. Prior to considering a cannabis product, the patient must first be evaluated to confirm that the animal has a potentially cannabis-responsive condition.

“Does the patient have any contraindications or comorbidities that may prevent you from starting cannabis? Are there any potential drug interactions that you should be aware of?” Dr. Hazzah asked. “The next step is to evaluate the actual product as well as the product safety.”

She cited a 2015 study that evaluated 75 edible cannabis products available in various California cities and found that just 7% of the products were accurately labeled for the cannabinoid content. In a follow-up session, Jack Henion, PhD, professor emeritus of toxicology at Cornell University, also conveyed results of a similar study where 12 of 13 animal products had greater THC levels than Canada’s acceptable limits.

“It’s really, really important that clients do their due diligence and ask for a certificate of analysis,” said Dr. Hazzah, who discourages clients from treating pets with cannabis products marketed for human illness.

“You want to walk them through finding companies that are transparent, that have good customer service, that have up-to-date COA—a certificate of analysis—confirming that the product is free of contaminants and that is very specific on what is in the product,” she said.

Talk to clients about potential adverse effects and what signs to look for in pets, Dr. Hazzah added.

“And then, lastly, you should set really clear expectations with a client, making sure that they know that cannabis is not necessarily a wonder drug,” Dr. Hazzah explained. “
 

CBD Oil for Dogs: What You Need to Know


The AKC’s Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr. Jerry Klein, explains what CBD oil is, what it does, and its safety concerns and side effects.

What Is CBD Oil?​

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a compound found in cannabis and hemp. Dr. Klein says it is essential to note that in most cases, CBD oil does not contain delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the compound that gives marijuana its psychoactive properties. In fact, most CBD products are derived from hemp and not from marijuana.

How Does CBD Affect Dogs?​

Currently, there has been no formal study on how CBD affects dogs. What scientists do know is that cannabinoids interact with the endocannabinoid receptors located in the central and peripheral nervous systems, which help maintain balance in the body and keep it in a normal healthy state.

What Dog Health Problems Can CBD Oil Treat?​

While there’s no definitive scientific data on using CBD to treat dogs, there’s anecdotal evidence from dog owners suggesting it can treat pain, especially neuropathic pain, as well as helping to control seizures.

According to Dr. Klein, CBD is also used because of its anti-inflammatory properties, cardiac benefits, anti-nausea effects, appetite stimulation, anti-anxiety impact, and for possible anti-cancer benefits, although there’s no conclusive data on this use.

The AKC Canine Health Foundation (CHF) is sponsoring a study, through the Colorado State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, that will evaluate the use of CBD in treatment-resistant epileptic dogs. The CHF hopes that this will be the first study to gain scientific data on the use of CBD in dogs with this condition.

Possible Side Effects of CBD in Dogs​

While there’s no scientific data on the side effects of CBD usage for dogs, there are potential side effects based on how CBD affects humans. To minimize any potential side effects, make sure you are following the proper dosage.

  • Dry mouth: Research has shown that CBD can decrease the production of saliva. For dogs, this would manifest as an increased thirst.
  • Lowered blood pressure: High doses of CBD have been known to cause a temporary drop in blood pressure. Even though the drop is small, it might create a brief feeling of light-headedness.
  • Drowsiness: Dog owners have used CBD to treat anxiety. The calming effect of CBD can also cause slight drowsiness, especially when using higher doses.

Risks of Using CBD Oil for Dogs​

The safety and risks of using CBD for dogs have not yet been researched. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has not approved CBD and has not issued a dosing chart. Therefore, we do not know what size dosage would be toxic. Any medication or supplement carries the risk of a reaction. It is always advisable, when giving your dog something new, to start out with small amounts and then closely monitor the effects. And always check with your veterinarian first.

CBD Products on the Market​

If you and your veterinarian decide that you should try CBD as a treatment for your dog, there are a few things to keep in mind when purchasing CBD oil. Not all oils are the same; you’ll want high-quality CBD oil to have a better chance of it working.

  • Look for organic. If the CBD oil is not organic, it at least should not contain pesticides, fungicides, or solvents.
  • Don’t only shop based on price. Higher quality and purity are usually associated with a higher cost. A cheaper option could contain toxic substances such as pesticides, herbicides, or heavy metals. Make sure your CBD oil is free of additives.
  • Get the analysis. The manufacturer should provide a certificate that certifies the amount of CBD that is in the product. Many CBD products contain only small amounts of CBD. You’ll also want to make sure there is little or no THC in the product.
  • Buy CBD as a liquid. You can buy dog treats containing CBD, but the best form to administer is an oil or tincture. This way, you can adjust your dog’s dose drop by drop.

The CBD Wellness Trend​

Why are we hearing so much about CBD oil now? Dr. Klein points to the legalization of marijuana in many places, which has triggered interest in potential health benefits of marijuana-related products. “We are likely to see continued interest in CBD and an increase in research about its uses and efficacy in the coming years,” he says.

Learn more about the CBD study funded by the Canine Health Foundation.
 
I figured this might be a good discussion to have here. I don't really have any scientific knowledge on the subject whatsoever but I thought about this the other day when my father came to visit me yesterday and he chastised me when he learned that I vaporize in the same room as the dog. Now this is something I really never gave a second thought about and now I'm wondering if there might be any negative effects to our animals breathing in the second hand vapor fumes when we exhale. What seems to be the general consensus on this subject here?
I don't go out of my way to separate myself from my pet dog when I vape, however the dogs resting spots are no closer 25 feet from my usual vaping locations in the house. After a bud session I try to keep my commands to the dog simple clear. With the horses I am never lit if I have a choice because they aren't pets and its a working relationship. As to possible health benefits and risks I am waiting for additional studies.
 
My squirrel used to eat my weed alot..
Little basterd...
Especially in spring he loved hunting my cannabis..
 
Imagine my shock lol..... Not exactly a pet but...

Feeding Cows Hemp Helps Them Chill Out, Federally Funded Study Finds


Compared to the control group, the hemp-munching steers spent more time lying down and had lower levels of stress hormones.

By Suzanne Perez, Kansas News Service

A new study suggests feeding cattle industrial hemp—a horticultural cousin of marijuana—reduces their stress levels and makes them lie down more.

That could prove beneficial to ranchers because relaxed steers tend to be healthier. Researchers at Kansas State University said hemp could be a natural way to decrease stress-related respiratory infections and other ailments when cattle are being transported or weaned off their mothers.

Mike Kleinhenz, assistant professor of beef production medicine at the K-State College of Veterinary Medicine, published the results of the study recently in Scientific Reports.

“We might have a more natural way to reduce stress in cattle,” he said. “And we’re just starting to scratch the surface on some of the benefits.”



Kleinhenz’s study involved 16 Holstein steers. Over two weeks, half the steers consumed traditional feed and the other half ate a mixture of feed with industrial hemp. It’s a cannabis variety containing the chemical compound CBD with lower levels of the psychoactive component THC—the stuff that gets you high.

CBD is a popular pain- and anxiety-relief remedy.

Kleinhenz and his team tracked the cattle’s movements and also monitored their blood for cortisol and prostaglandins, which are biomarkers for stress. Compared to the control group, the hemp-munching steers spent more time lying down and had lower levels of stress hormones.

The team also found that the hemp was absorbed but did not accumulate in the steers’ systems, Kleinhenz said.

“It was kind of an exploratory study that yielded some really interesting results,” he said. “You usually don’t go fishing and find stuff like that.”

Cattle that are more relaxed could benefit ranchers when it’s time to wean them or move them to feedlots when close-quarters stress sometimes leads to respiratory infections or other ailments.

After the 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp production in the United States, interest grew in hemp as an agricultural commodity, including as feed for animals. But U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval would be required before hemp could be fed to livestock or pets.

In 2020, K-State’s team received a $200,000 research grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to analyze the safety of industrial hemp as cattle feed.



Currently, growers dealing in the CBD oil market hire processors to extract the oil from hemp seeds or flowers. The process leaves behind large amounts of plant material with little value.

If those byproducts, which contain trace amounts of CBD or THC, could be used to feed livestock, it would benefit cattle ranchers and keep waste out of landfills, Kleinhenz said.

“Basically it’s the old cow recycle” system, he said. “Similar to the ethanol story, where cattle are fed distillers’ grains from ethanol production.”

Follow-up studies will look at how cattle absorb CBD compounds and their potential effect on food products.

“We want to understand the whole timeline, from when an animal last consumes [hemp compounds] to when it can safely enter the food chain and not have those compounds in the system,” Kleinhenz said.

This story was first published by Kansas News Service.
 

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