Across the world, millions of people use cannabis. Some are for personal and/or recreational reasons but, most are for medical reasons. Addressing things a multitude of ailments, cannabis has been a savior to man. In this aim of medicinal triumph, what about man’s best friend?
The topic has been up for debate for some time now. Some revel in the natural alternative options but others are worrisome that THC may not have the best effects on our furry friends. Just as it is with any medical claims, cannabis for pets has been one of the few that divides users almost down the middle. The fact that most veterinarians are legally prevented from recommending it based on the plant’s legal status. As mixed stories of Treatwell, cannabis tincture producer for pets, and their problematic CEO came out late last month, however, the discussion has been brought up again in full force.
The tincture producer was relatively unknown outside of the regions it as sold in. After the “Permit Patty” incident, interviews recalling the companies “don’t ask, don’t tell” legality put manufacturers of similar products in hot water. Most medications for pets are made with CBD but some few still use THC in conjunction or exclusively. As a result of the lack of research, pet-edibles are uncharted territory. Regardless, pet-appropriate cannabis producers claim that cannabis can relieve the following in pets:
- lack of appetite
- separation anxiety/car sickness
- excessive barking/meowing
- lack of vitality and energy
- muscle spasms or seizures
- pain from cancer or arthritis
- recovery from surgery or illness
- pacing or inability to settle or relax
- fear of thunderstorms, fireworks or loud noises
- grumpiness or aggression toward another animal
Though verbal approval has not been give on the matter, the natural alternative is still used by a growing group of consumers. Unfortunately, as with many things in this industry, the rules have not caught up with science, the business or the culture. Understandably, society’s continued taboo feelings surrounding cannabis is stronger in the case of non-human use. CBD is widely used in pet-consumption but, recently, THC has been more openly used as well. For those searching for cannabis information for their pets, the burning question remains, THC or CBD?
Doctor Gary Richter, owner and medical director of an Oakland Animal Hospital, feels that the two are beneficial but has discussed the dangers of THC consumption with animals. Richter, a veterinarian of 20 years, agrees that cannabidiol is medically beneficial to animals and “has shown enormous potential to treat medical conditions”. While he recognizes the differences in the way it affects animals and humans, he still advocates for its safe medicinal use believing it should only be given as medicine based on professional analysis.
“There is an impression that cannabis is 100 percent safe. This is not true, especially in pets…An overdose of cannabis can lead to loss of balance, loss of appetite, and sometimes collapse. In rare cases, an overdose of cannabis can be fatal.”
-Dr. Gary Richter
Doctor Richter is part of a movement of doctors, originally started by the late Dr. Doug Kramer, trying to change regulations to make medical advisory available. The education from a health professional would prevent any issues with cannabis-consumption with animals. They don’t feel THC should not be used but be used with extreme caution if not receiving advice from a medical professional.
As stated before, many pet-owners have opted for cannabis options considering the alternative can many times be harmful substances that can hurt pets more than help. In local, Lindsey Mora’s case, the alternative just wasn’t an option.
Lindsey received her beloved chihuahua min-pin as a present during Christmas of 2012. Considering her love of things classic and the pup’s hyper nature, she named him Jimi, after Mr. Hendrix himself. After her furry bundle came into her life, however, she noticed some strange behavior. Jimi would seem dizzy after eating as if he was unable to stand, he would grow foggy and unresponsive at times. These things escalated into what she now knows are seizures, leaving Mora unable to do anything for her beloved pet until it was over. A veterinarian suggested that Mora put Jimi on anti-seizure medications but, considering Jimi’s small size, natural hyper nature, and not wanting to out his extra pressure on his small frame, it wasn’t a favorable situation. In addition, if regular doses were stopped or missed, it could trigger a seizure.
Mora juggled between micro-doses of THC, natural “additive-free” dog foods and other holistic medicines for three years but, aside from THC, nothing seemed to stick. Because of the dangers of THC-consumption, it wasn’t the most comfortable option. It wasn’t until 2016 when she found another solution.
“Around Hempfest, I was gifted a ‘CBD Hemp tincture’ and was told I could use it on myself or for my furry friend.”
She jumped at the chance to try it. When she got home and Jimi begin to show symptoms, she took it as a sign to try the tincture. She dropped a small amount of the tincture into his mouth and she was amazed by the results. For the first time, something prevented him from going into a seizure. After only a few moments, he regained his sense of balance. It was a moment of both happiness and sadness as Mora finally felt like she had the situation under control. Jimi got the relief he needed and Lindsey has peace of mind knowing that would be too hard on his body or make him lethargic.
I can attest to how happy of a puppy Jimi is and having a difference so mind-blowing is truly a miracle. To look further into CBD, always try online. Since it doesn’t contain the compound THC, may edible and tincture creators can ship products that are purchased online. Options are available and, with time, they will be local as well.
As mentioned, it’s always important to consult a physician before giving your pets and cannabis-based products. While CBD is seen as a safe option, THC should be used cautiously and safely. Though both compounds provide tons of benefits for humans, the effects may not be the same for your smaller furry family members. As a whole, cannabis seems to be helping not only people but animals as well.
Written by: Joycelin Arnold
