HB 5085: Veterinarians Can Now Discuss CBD with Pet Owners

May 6, 2021

HB 5085: Veterinarians Can Now Discuss CBD with Pet Owners

Veterinarians Discussing CBD with Pet Owners

Did you know that veterinarians are now discussing CBD with pet owners? CBD products have gained popularity in recent years, prompting pet owners to seek advice from their vets. A recent survey revealed that 63% of vets are asked about CBD oil for pets monthly, and 52% of pet owners have tried CBD for pets based on vet recommendations.

In many states, veterinarians face legal uncertainties when addressing CBD inquiries due to the complex legal landscape surrounding cannabis-derived products. However, a recently enacted law in Michigan, HB 5085, now allows vets to consult with clients about CBD and THC for their pets without risking their professional standing.

This new law is significant for veterinarians, pet owners, and pets, as it enables pet owners to receive accurate information and tailored advice about CBD products that could enhance their pets’ well-being. The enactment of HB 5085 provides a legal framework for discussing CBD, offering pet owners an opportunity to seek guidance on CBD during their next visit to the vet with their beloved pets.

What Is HB 5085?

Michigan state Representatives Gregory Markkanen, Hank Vaupel, Douglas Wozniak, and Sara Cambensy sponsored House Bill 5085 (HB 5085). Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed it into law as Public Act 280 of 2020. This bill empowers Michigan veterinarians to counsel pet owners on the use of marijuana and CBD. Dr. Kellie Holmstrom’s challenges prompted the bill, enabling vets to offer guidance on CBD and THC products for pets, including potential medication interactions and serving sizes, benefiting both pets and their owners.

Should I Ask My Veterinarian About CBD for My Dog or Cat?

Research on CBD, or cannabidiol, is still in its early stages. However, studies have shown that CBD may be helpful in reducing symptoms of conditions such as anxiety, pain, cancer and arthritis in both humans and pets alike. For this reason, many pet owners are interested in learning more about this more natural way to improve their dogs and cats’ health and wellness.

Currently, no CBD products are FDA-approved for use in pets, which aligns with the FDA’s limited regulation of CBD for human use, except for one prescription medication containing CBD. However, the FDA does advise pet owners to talk to their veterinarian about appropriate supplement options for pets.

Exploring HB 5085

Importantly, while HB 5085 allows vets to talk to pet owners about both CBD and THC products, most CBD products on the market contain no more than a trace amount of CBD. This is because under federal law, hemp (from which CBD is extracted) can contain no more than 0.3% THC. In comparison, marijuana may have as much as 30% THC. If you are worried about giving your dog or cat something that could make them feel high or stoned, stick to CBD products produced from American-grown industrial hemp.

Research and Potential Benefits

To date, researchers have conducted only a few studies on pets regarding the use of CBD. In a 2018 study, CBD demonstrated improvement in pain and mobility in 80% of dogs with osteoarthritis. Similarly, in 2019, dogs given CBD alongside anti-epileptic medicines experienced significantly fewer seizures compared to those given a placebo instead of CBD. These studies show promise, but it’s important to note that they still have limited scope.

Consultation with Veterinarian

Similar research conducted on how CBD may help humans may be applicable to cats and dogs, given that CBD is thought to work by affecting the endocannabinoid system that all mammals have. However, until scientists perform more studies on how CBD specifically affects pets, your best option as a pet owner is to consult with your veterinarian about using CBD for your dog or cat.

Administration and Expert Advice

If you choose to give your pet CBD following vet consultation, options for administration include treats, oils, and creams. A 2018 study found CBD oil to be more effective than creams or gel capsules for dogs with epilepsy. Your vet can help determine if CBD is suitable for your pet, the best method of administration, and the right serving size based on their weight and condition.

Choosing a CBD Product for Your Pet

There are a lot of CBD products on the market, many of which make outlandish promises about potential benefits. Because the FDA does not regulate CBD products, it can be hard to know what to buy. If your vet doesn’t recommend a product, consider these when shopping for pet CBD.

First, you should only buy a CBD product that has been independently tested and makes those laboratory results available online. You can review the product’s certificate of analysis (COA) to find the CBD and THC content of a given product and to make sure that it is free from pesticides and heavy metals. If a particular pet CBD product doesn’t offer a COA, steer clear.

Secondly, ensure to choose products made from hemp grown in the United States, guaranteeing a THC content of no more than 0.3% to comply with federal law. Although THC is believed to be safe for dogs and cats in low doses, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) classifies THC as a toxic substance for dogs and cats. If you prefer to completely avoid THC, seek out products labeled as broad spectrum CBD or CBD isolate. These products may also be labeled as 0% THC or THC free.

Green Wellness Life offers a number of independently tested CBD products for pets

Each of which is made from industrial hemp grown in the United States. Depending on your dog or cat’s specific needs, you may want to try:

No matter what product you give your dog or cat, carefully observe them to see how it affects them. While side effects with CBD are usually rare and tend to be very mild, watch for symptoms like excessive panting, lethargy, vomiting, and loss of balance. If you notice any of these issues, they may have consumed too much CBD.

At the same time, look for potential positive changes after administering CBD to your pet. For example, if you gave your dog CBD on the Fourth of July and he is calm during fireworks (when he would usually be panicking), the CBD is probably working to calm his anxiety. Similarly, if you give your cat CBD for arthritis and notice that she is running and jumping like she used to, you may be able to conclude that the CBD is working for them.

Buy Top Quality CBD Products for Your Pet

As a pet owner, you want what is best for your fluffy family members. For some pets, CBD may be a good way to improve certain health conditions or their quality of life. Under HB 5085, you can now talk directly to your pet’s veterinarian so that you can make an informed decision about whether CBD is right for them.

At Green Wellness Life, we aren’t medical professionals, and cannot diagnose or treat you OR your pets. We can share our CBD experience and the latest research on its benefits. For more information or assistance in finding a reliable, independently tested pet CBD product, contact us at 1-866-244-4223, fill out our online form, or click the live chat button.

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HB 5085: Veterinarians Can Now Discuss CBD with Pet Owners