Dear Editor,
The case, presented in the January 2019 Veterinary Medical Ethics, (Can Vet J 2019;60:13–16), highlights the significant need for education for both veterinarians and pet owners on the topic of veterinary cannabinoid medicine and the endocannabinoid system.
As an emerging field, there are numerous anecdotal reports and well over 20 000 studies in humans and animals elucidating the potential benefits of cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. Cannabis products can be safe and efficacious in veterinary applications, but many more studies in companion animal and other species are needed to determine standard dosages, side effects, and potential drug interactions.
Until recently, veterinarians in North America have been prohibited from speaking with their clients on this subject due to the illegal nature of cannabis. Even with recent legalization for humans, there is still no legal pathway for veterinarians to recommend, prescribe, or dispense cannabis products. This prohibition has tied the hands of veterinarians to counsel their clients adequately on the benefits and potential side effects of cannabis, leaving many well-meaning pet caretakers to “experiment.”
In order to best serve our patients and clients, we must ensure that veterinarians are permitted and equipped to provide appropriate education surrounding veterinary cannabis use.
Sincerely,
Canadian Association of Veterinary Cannabinoid Medicine, Ajax, ON L1Z 0B6. Website: www.cavcm.com; email: info.cavcm@gmail.com
Footnotes
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