Two proposed bills–one in Utah and another in California–would give veterinarians greater freedom to discuss hemp- and cannabis-based medicines with animals’ owners.
Senate Bill 209 in Utah would clarify that licensed veterinarians are “not prohibited from discussing the effect of cannabis on an animal with the animal’s owner,” according to the bill text. This includes treatments with THC or other cannabinoids from industrial hemp or medical cannabis.
Meanwhile, Assembly Bill 1885 would give veterinarians the right to discuss and recommend cannabis and cannabis products as medicine or supplements for pets. The bill would protect veterinarians from disciplinary or financial penalty for discussing cannabis-based treatments with pet owners. It also proposes veterinarian board-certified guidelines and cannabis industry quality control standards and guidelines to be developed and followed.
Both bills are currently moving through their state legislatures.
The bills fall in line with a growing trend of consumers looking to try pet CBD products for their animals. A recent survey from Brightfield Group showed discussions with professionals are key to helping them feel comfortable enough to purchase and use pet CBD products.
