Medical marijuana eases chronic pain, alleviates anxiety, and reduces nausea for countless patients nationwide—human ones, that is. But what about your furry companions? Could they also benefit from cannabis treatment?
If you have an anxious Angora or a stiff-jointed Schnauzer, you know how challenging it can be to find a natural remedy that truly works. Cannabis might be the solution you’ve been seeking. Here at Dispensary Works, we pride ourselves in being one of the best dispensaries in Maryland and would be happy to guide you in the right direction.
Understanding Medical Marijuana for Pets
While both humans and pets can benefit from medical marijuana, pets react differently to cannabis than we do. Before giving your pet a CBD soft chew or a dose of calming hemp oil, it’s essential to understand the terminology, regulations, and effects of pet-grade cannabis.
Terminology and Legality
Isn’t all marijuana illegal at the federal level? Not quite. The 2018 Farm Bill introduced a distinction between two types of cannabis: marijuana and hemp.
Here’s how they’re classified:
- Marijuana: Contains more than 0.3% THC and typically has enough THC to produce a psychoactive “high.” While federally illegal, many states allow its use for medical and/or recreational purposes, including for pets.
- Hemp: Contains less than 0.3% THC and is used in food, textiles, and other products. Hemp is also a legal source of CBD, the non-psychoactive component of cannabis that promotes relaxation without causing a high. Pet-grade cannabis products are usually derived from hemp.
With hemp essentially legalized at the federal level, a variety of over-the-counter hemp and CBD products have become available for both humans and pets. However, these products aren’t regulated by the FDA like traditional medications.
The legality of pet cannabis depends on your state’s laws. While legalization primarily applies to humans, if it’s legal for you, chances are you can find legal products for your pet as well.
Some states with specific CBD laws for pets include:
- Alabama
- Georgia
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Mississippi
- North Carolina
- South Carolina
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
Before purchasing hemp or CBD products for your pet, check your state’s regulations. While most vets can’t prescribe these products, many can guide you in exploring your options.
How Pets Can Benefit From Hemp and CBD
CBD, alone or combined with other non-psychoactive cannabinoids, can provide various health benefits for your pet. Owners have turned to these products to help manage chronic conditions like:
- Cancer pain
- Arthritis
- Anxiety and behavioral issues
- Seizure disorders
Some pet CBD products leverage the entourage effect—the idea that the therapeutic benefits of cannabis are maximized when most or all of its compounds (including cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids) are present. Broad-spectrum pet CBD products contain most cannabinoids except THC, ensuring your pet receives the non-psychoactive advantages of cannabis.
Pets may not be able to express how they feel, but as their owner, you know them best. Here’s how some owners have seen their pets benefit from cannabis:
- Anxious or reactive pets, who might lash out, destroy furniture, or bark excessively, have found calm, enjoyed walks more, and slept better with CBD.
- Pets with stiff, painful joints are moving with greater ease, making activities like walking or climbing stairs more manageable.
- CBD can also help alleviate digestive issues, leading to smoother meal times and fewer accidents.
Every pet has a unique personality, and their response to cannabis may vary. If you’re considering CBD for your pet, consult your veterinarian, choose products designed for pets, and introduce it gradually.
A Guide to Pet-Safe Cannabis Products and Dosages
If you use medical marijuana, you might be tempted to share your products with your pets, but giving them human-grade marijuana isn’t like offering them table scraps. As one of the best dispensaries in Maryland, we our happy to help guide you to the right products.
Here’s how human-grade and pet-grade cannabis products differ:
Dosage – Your medical marijuana likely contains much higher cannabinoid levels than pet-safe options. Giving an animal one of your edibles could result in them consuming more cannabis than their smaller, more sensitive systems can handle. Always read the product’s label for pet-specific dosing, and use the guidelines below based on your pet’s weight.
Ingredients – Human edibles often contain ingredients toxic to animals, like chocolate. Pet-friendly cannabis products are made with safe ingredients and come in flavors your pet loves, such as peanut butter or chicken.
Even if you’re well-versed in cannabis, you can’t predict how your pet will react to hemp or CBD. Before introducing any supplement to your pet’s routine, consult your veterinarian.
Best Dispensaries in Maryland
Dispensary Works is a Southern Maryland marijuana dispensary committed to providing the best cannabis product to patients and clients. Our highly trained staff is here to help you select the best cannabis for your particular needs. We are here to guide you as you uncover the world of marijuana. If you would like to learn more about who we are and what we do, contact us today!
