Californians have been able to use marijuana as medicine for two decades, and soon their sick pets may also be able to take advantage of cannabis’ health benefits.
State Assemblyman Ash Kalra (D-San Jose) has introduced a bill that would require the Veterinary Medical Board to establish guidelines for licensed veterinarians to discuss the use of cannabis for animals.
“It is critical for the protection of our beloved pets that knowledgeable veterinarians be allowed to discuss the safe use and medicinal value of cannabis products already available to California consumers,” Kalra said.
Marijuana remains an illegal drug under federal law, and ballot measures approved by California voters only allow people to use it for medical and recreational purposes, according to an opinion put out by the state board.
“There is nothing in California law that would allow a veterinarian to prescribe, recommend, or approve marijuana for treating animals,” the state board opinion says. “Veterinarians are in violation of California law if they are incorporating cannabis into their practices.”
