Can CBD help dogs?
QWith the legalization of marijuana in several states, I am curious about its possible uses in animals. My 11-year-old schnauzer was diagnosed about nine months ago with epilepsy and has been taking phenobarbital with limited success. I have researched cannabidiol (CBD) in dogs and have asked my veterinarian about weaning my dog off his current medication. Despite varying doses, he still exhibits seizure activity once every six weeks for a day or so. My vet suggested that weaning the dog off the current medication would not be much different than stopping its use altogether. He instead suggested further diagnostics, such as a CT or MRI, to be sure there is nothing else is going on. He also mentioned trying combinations of medications. I need your opinion.
AThe active ingredient in marijuana that affects humans is THC, and it is known to be toxic in dogs and therefore dangerous.
On the other hand, CBD can be purchased for use in dogs. In people, it has been suggested to have beneficial effects on pain and inflammation as well as anxiety and seizures. Despite some of these reports, there are no studies in dogs to suggest that the same holds true for them.
If you are considering trying CBD for your dog, I suspect you would be risking your dog’s health with a product that is not well understood. While your dog has been taking one drug with hopefully some seizure control, your might consider asking about a drug combination, such as potassium bromide with phenobarbital.
I have never prescribed or suggested using CBD in any of my patients and will not unless there is sound science and legal authorization to do so. Proper diagnostics and dosing with approved and well researched medications strikes me as the correct way to address your dog’s seizures.
Ultimately, the decision will be yours. If you are going to experiment, I would suggest you proceed with caution and start at the lowest possible dosing to avoid any negative results. Good luck with your decision.
ASK THE VET Dr. John de Jong