Many people have questions regarding the use of Cannabis and
Cannabis oil on their pets. With the new Cannabis
Act, there raises a concern within the pet health field. This act creates a
new environment for Canadians which will increase their pet’s exposure to
marijuana.
Currently,
there are no approved cannabis or cannabidiol (CBD) prescription drugs for
animals, which is the safest pathway for veterinarians to prescribe cannabis to
animals. There are veterinary health products (VHP) with hemp that are approved
for sale in Canada; these are low risk substances used to maintain or promote
the health and welfare of animals and do not make health claims. VHPs can
contain ingredients such as hemp seed derivatives containing no more than 10
ppm THC, which will be exempt from the Cannabis Act.
These products can be identified by a notification number on the label. Pet
owners should be aware of unapproved products being marketed to consumers. If a
cannabis product does not have a drug identification number (DIN) or a
notification number (VHP) then its safety and efficacy cannot be verified.
Anyone can visit Health Canada’s VHP web App and search the notification number
or brand name.
Marijuana toxicities can occur when pets ingest the substance
or if smoke is blown into their nose or face. Signs can include lethargy,
disorientation, wobbliness, vomiting, increased salivation, and urinary
incontinence. Marijuana toxicosis can be life threatening so please do not be
afraid to let your veterinarian know you pet could have been exposed.
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