With the growing interest in CBD and cannabis products for pets, there has been a significant hurdle in California—the inability for veterinarians to discuss or recommend these potentially beneficial products without risking their professional licenses. The landscape, however, began to shift in favor of both pet parents and veterinarians with the passing of critical legislation. On September 18, 2022, a landmark decision came with the approval of California’s bill AB 1885 paving the way for veterinarians to recommend cannabis and CBD for animals for potential therapeutic or health supplementation purposes.
This bill built upon the foundation laid by AB 2215 which took effect on January 1, 2019, and allowed veterinarians to discuss medical cannabis without the threat of losing their licenses.
Here are AB 1885’s key provisions…
- Prohibit the Board from disciplining a veterinarian who recommends the use of cannabis on an animal for potential therapeutic effect or health supplementation purposes, unless the veterinarian is employed by or has an agreement with a cannabis licensee, as specified;
- Require that cannabis products intended for animals comply with additional concentration and other standards adopted by regulations of the department; and
- Require the Department of Cannabis Control to promulgate regulations for animal product standards no later than July 1, 2025.
- Require the Board to adopt guidelines by January 1, 2024, for veterinarians to follow when recommending cannabis within the veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and requires the Board to post the guidelines on its internet website.
As of June 2023, Californian veterinarians can:
- Discuss or recommend the use of cannabis on an animal for potential therapeutic effect or health supplementation purposes, unless the veterinarian is employed by or has an agreement with a cannabis licensee.
- Discuss, recommend, administer and dispense (sell) hemp-derived CBD pet products formulated in accordance with AB45 requirements.
As of June 2023, Californian veterinarians cannot:
- Dispense (sell) or administer cannabis or cannabis products to an animal patient.
Additionally, AB 1885 applies on top of AB 45, which became law in October 2021 to allow hemp-derived cannabidiol (CBD) with less than 0.3% THC to be added to human and animal food in California. This state provision is contrary to the federal Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 (or “Farm Bill of 2018”), which removed hemp from being classified as a Schedule I drug under the federal Controlled Substances Act.
Mikko’s Choice always recommends talking to your Veterinarian when it comes to your pets health. We are so pleased that now California residents can have open and honest conversations with their vets about CBD. Just be aware, some vets need CBD and cannabis education, which is something Mikko’s Choice strives to improve through in person or virtual continuing education. If you have any questions or would like to participate in this please email info@mikkoschoice.com
