Medical Pot ... For Pets?

Medical marijuana may have benefits for humans, but also our four-legged friends. However, little is known about the medical applications of cannabis on pets — but not for long. The University of California, Davis (UC Davis) is working to change that.

This year, the university launched an ongoing survey with the intention of collecting information about the use of medical marijuana on animals, including: products used, perceived benefits, and side effects.

Many pet owners report cannabis significantly combats anxiety and pain, and promotes mobility.

Though many scientific studies have been conducted on animals, and anecdotal evidence shows cannabis to be beneficial for animals, little information is available on the long-term effects of medical marijuana on pets.

Animals are known to have an endocannabinoid system, and benefit from the anti-pain, anti-seizure, and anti-inflammatory properties of cannabis. However, their tolerance for the substance (particularly THC) is much lower than humans. Unlike us, pets can overdose — which is why more information and precise dosing is vital at a time when infused pet products are popping up in the global marketplace. Edibles are especially toxic for animals, as they often contain ingredients like chocolate (a known toxin for pets).

For these reasons and more, the veterinary community in the U.S. has pushed for more research into the effects of medical marijuana for animals.

Oakland-based veterinarian Dr. Gary Richter recommends small doses of non-psychoactive CBD oil. Well-manufactured oils can have a range of benefits, he explained, "from seizure and pain relief to easing GI distress, treating joint-related issues and even addressing mood problems like stress, anxiety, and aggression.”