Cape Coral – Pot for pets – it’s a new way to treat your animal’s pain.
Some Southwest Florida veterinarians are using cannabis oils and edibles as an alternative treatment.
Medical marijuana is a hot topic all over the country but could hemp help your sick pet?
One Cape Coral man said it already has.
"You feel so helpless, and you have no answers," said Sean Phillips.
He owns three Bernese Mountain Dogs. When his 6-year-old, Tanker, got sick with an autoimmune disease, vets told him there was nothing more that could be done.
"It broke our hearts; it completely kind of devastated us."
Tanker, covered in black fur turned white, lost his hair. Phillips said he and his wife turned to holistic healing, using cannabis oil to help.
"We thought he was going to pass and we got another three years out of him and he became almost a puppy again."
When Tanker’s brother, 10-year-old Diesel suffered a herniated disc and could not walk after several surgeries, Phillips again turned to a pot product. Now, Diesel is back on his paws with the help of a harness.
"He is kind of the miracle dog, and we put that all back on the cannabis oil."
More and more holistic veterinarians in Southwest Florida are using a variety of products, including oils and edibles to help pet pain relief and recovery.
According to experts, the products contain an extract of cannabis, called cannabinoid oil, which is considered a legal hemp product.
"This is just the cannabinoid oil. This is not anything with the psychoactive effect at all," said Dr. Anne Lampru, a holistic veterinarian.
Phillips said for him, it’s a natural remedy – better than any antibiotic. He calls it a near cannabis cure.
"It’s a case-by-case situation, and I know it’s worked amazing for us."
These oils are not approved by the FDC, which warns consumers to be cautious of health claims associated with these products.
Dr. Iris Ramirez of Fort Myers, who helped Phillips, said she’s using it on two pets right now.
News Moderator: Katelyn Baker
Full Article: Cannabis For Pets? Cape Man, Vet Say It Can Work
Author: Nestor Mato
Contact: NBC 2
Photo Credit: NBC 2
Website: NBC 2
