To gain further insight, Kogan et al. conducted a survey among approximately 34,000 US veterinarians. Out of the 2,130 veterinarians who participated, 44% claimed to have some knowledge about the therapeutic effects of CBD products in dogs, while 35% admitted to having limited knowledge. When it came to the reported toxic effects of CBD products in dogs, only 30% had some knowledge, while 44% had limited knowledge.
Interestingly, more than half of the participants (56%) reported having direct clinical experience with CBD products, primarily through observing what their clients reported. The most familiar CBD products to these veterinarians were oil extracts/tinctures and biscuits/edibles. The most commonly witnessed or reported side effects were sedation and increased appetite. On a positive note, CBD products were found to provide analgesia for chronic and acute pain, reduce anxiety, and decrease seizure frequency/severity.
Despite these potential benefits, the survey revealed that CBD products are not frequently advised, recommended, or prescribed by veterinarians. In fact, 44.1% of respondents stated that they “never” or “rarely” advise the use of CBD products. The main reasons cited for this were the lack of knowledge and the need for more research.
The use of CBD supplements by pet owners to address behavioral issues in companion animals is largely driven by the potential calming effects of CBD. In a separate study, 67% of participants who had used CBD for their pets mentioned anxiety or the calming effect as the reason for usage.
Overall, these findings highlight the need for increased education and awareness among veterinarians regarding CBD products. With better understanding and knowledge, veterinarians can play a crucial role in guiding their clients towards safe and effective use of CBD for their pets.