Currently, veterinarians can run afoul of the state’s Veterinary Medical Board for “recommending” the cannabis treatments. A previous bill technically allowed veterinarians to “discuss” the use of cannabis, but did not clarify “recommendation” which carries potential disciplinary action.
Cannabis-based treatments for pets from VETCBD, some contain both THC and CBD. The company’s CEO, Dr. Tim Shu, is championing a bill that will allow veterinarians to freely recommend cannabis therapies.
Due to this lack of clarity, the Pet Cannabis Coalition says many veterinarians choose to err on the side of caution and forgo discussion of cannabis use for pets altogether. This reluctance left Californian’s without accredited advice and support on cannabis-use for their beloved companions.
“Cannabis can provide life-changing — and oftentimes life-saving — benefits for animals,” says veterinarian Dr. Tim Shu, the president of the Pet Cannabis Coalition and the founder and CEO of cannabis-based therapy company, VETCBD. “Pets and their owners deserve to have access to products that can improve their lives, and veterinarians should be allowed to provide guidance on such products. We need to shed the shroud of prohibition and embrace science if we’re to embark on a path of progress.”
Throw that dog a bone!
Studies have shown that cannabinoids such as CBD can provide benefits to pets suffering from arthritis and seizures. Veterinarians across the country have reported improvements in their pet patients with conditions including pain, anxiety, allergies, nausea and seizures, according to the group.
If AB 1885 passes, cannabis compounds including tinctures, topicals and chews could be recommended by veterinarians for administration to pets by their owners. Additionally, the bill states all animal cannabis products must be tested for safety, concentration, pesticides and other quality control measures; a huge benefit in enhancing safety for California pets.
“On behalf of our members across the state, we’re enthusiastic about supporting the mission of the Pet Cannabis Coalition,” added Lindsay Robinson, executive director of the California Cannabis Industry Association. “AB 1885 is an important step forward in providing clarity and structure surrounding how cannabis can be used for therapeutic purposes in pets.”
For more information about the effort to make cannabis fit for man or beast, alike, visit the Pet Cannabis Coalition’s website www.petcannabis.org where you can sign a letter of support.