Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of a group of compounds (phytocannabinoids) that comes from the hemp plant. Many of these compounds have shown potential benefit as therapeutic agents to treat a wide variety of disease, but CBD is one of the largest chemical constituents of this group and has been shown to hold great promise in human and veterinary medicine. Conditions such as osteoarthritis, anxiety disorders, seizure disorders, cancer, and diseases of the immune system are all potential targets for CBD.

CBD is not a psychoactive compound like THC. THC is the compound in marijuana that produces a euphoric “high.” CBD is a cannabinoid compound, also found in the cannabis and hemp plants, but does not alter perception, cognitive function or dexterity.

CBD is being actively studied in human and veterinary medicine. While CBD can be used as an adjunct or sole agent in the management of many conditions, the decision to use it should be made after consultation with your veterinarian.

The short answer? No. While it is possible to give your pet more CBD than is beneficial, the most typical side effect he or she will experience is drowsiness. If you want CBD to work properly, don’t overdo it. (And, we veterinarians should add, don't under-dose. CBD must be administered properly to achieve desired results.)

While research is still ongoing, the current data shows its effectiveness for conditions including the following:

- Anxiety
- Behavioral disorders
- Alleviation of cancer symptoms
- Seizure disorders
- Diseases of the immune system.

As more research is conducted, we predict this list will continue to grow.

While no adverse effects have been observed when administering large quantities of CBD to dogs (or cats), even small amounts of THC can prove harmful to them. Researchers have observed that THC has a more dramatic and profound effect on dogs than on humans. THC toxicity, therefore, is an ongoing risk.