Best CBD Oil for Dogs in the UK: Why Can't You Find These Products?
Your pooch giving you problems? Have you considered using CBD oil? CBD oils are items made from hemp plant extracts – manufacturers isolate the compound cannabidiol to make this product. However, regulations are really strict about CBD in the UK, especially for dogs.
Why Should You Consider CBD Oil for Your Dogs in the UK?
Alongside this substance, CBD oils contain various other compounds, including flavonoids, terpenes, and cannabinoids. From anxiety and inflammation to appetite, this cannabis-based product has the potential to treat several conditions.
These compounds can potentially treat various symptoms in your pet – also called phytocannabinoids; these compounds work by interacting with your dog's endocannabinoid system. Cannabidiol is one of the most important cannabinoids as it can potentially alleviate conditions like seizures, anxiety, skin inflammation, and more.
Studies show that 72% of dogs suffer from anxiety involving fear of strangers, other dogs, or separation. Vets typically prescribe drugs like trazodone to deal with these issues. CBD oil containing these substances can be a godsend, especially when you are dealing with an unhappy pet.
However, these can have side effects like disorientation, seizures, and more. CBD oils make a natural, safer alternative to drugs like these.
Laws in the UK about CBD Oil for Dogs
All CBD products for animals in the UK fall under the purview of the Veterinary Medicines Directorate, which defines these products as
“any substance or combination of substances that may be used in, or administered to, animals with a view either to restoring, correcting or modifying physiological functions by exerting a pharmacological, immunological or metabolic action, or to making a medical diagnosis.”
Under this law, your CBD oil must be verified and authorized for sale, i.e. it must possess a license passed by the Veterinary Medicines Directorate. All regulations regarding the sale, use, purchase, and limits of CBD oils for drugs are further outlined in the Veterinary Medicines Regulations (VMR).
These laws highlight everything from EU vet medicines to UK regulations on CBD use in animals to medicate d feed for livestock.
However, the main law of CBD, be it for human or animal use, is still the Misuse of Drugs Act of 1971, which places a 0.2% limit on the presence of the psychoactive tetrahydrocannabinol in all CBD products, including CBD oils for dogs.
CBD Oil for Dogs and the Veterinary Medicines Directorate
CBD laws, even for dogs, are more stringent in the UK than in the US. Even for human consumption, CBD oils must not contain more than 0.2% THC. Similarly, the Veterinary Medicine Directorate overlooks the authorization of all CBD products for dogs in the UK, including cannabidiol-infused oils.
All CBD oils for dogs in the UK are considered veterinary products. Because of this regulation, all CBD-based pet products must receive a market certification to be sold or bought within the country.
So far, despite the product being cleared for human use by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), no CBD oil for dogs has been authorized/approved by the Veterinary Medicines Directorate.
CBD Oils for Dogs You May Import to the UK
CBD products containing less than 0.2% THC are legally allowed under the Misuse of Drugs Act of 1971. However, the same rule does not apply to pet CBD. Due to stringent laws, importing CBD oils for dogs in the UK can be difficult.
The Veterinary Medicines Directorate must authorize any cannabidiol product targeted at dogs. However, since no CBD oil for dogs has yet received certification, you may face issues importing the following product to the UK.
Discover Cibapet CBD Oils for Dogs
With mild strength, natural ingredients, and convenient design, these pet CBD oils by Cibdiol make for a perfect all-rounder. Thie ingredient list for this product includes proteins, fibers, Vitamin E, and fish oil for good measure.
Available in 2% and 4% formulas, these CBD oils target your dog's ECS, promoting relaxation and calm.
Recommended Dose: As per your dog's weight
Pros:
- Available in 2% and 5% Formulations
- Lab Tested
- Mild Strength
Cons:
- No Terpenes
Dr Hempme CBD Oil for Dogs
Your dog deserves the cleanest products, and this CBD oil from Dr Hempme is one of the purest items on the market. The brand's CBD oil is a full spectrum blend that is vegan, gluten-free, and even has a salmon florin to appeal to your pet.
In addition, Dr Hempme offers no shipping charges and usually sends your product in 1 to 3 business days.
Recommended Dose: Four drops daily initially
Pros:
- The salmon Flavor Makes the Oil More Appealing
- 5% Hemp Extract
- Vegan, Gluten Free
Cons:
- Traceable THC
Disclaimer
Before buying CBD oil for dogs online, getting a professional review from a vet is important. Despite all its propounded benefits, research into these products is still in its infancy, and there is not enough data to make concrete claims about CBD oils.
One of the dangers of administering these oil to your dog is that cannabidiol has the potential to halt the functioning of the kidney enzyme P450. This substance is responsible for breaking down medication in dogs, so improper use of CBD can alter the effects of the drugs in the system.
Consulting with your vet before buying CBD oils helps avoid scenarios where the effects of the medication are dangerously enhanced or completely nullified. If approved by a verified pet expert, it is possible to import CBD oils for dogs to the UK.
However, with the law, you should know that this can land you in hot water. Buying CBD oil for dogs outside the UK can be seen as a violation of Regulation 8 under the Veterinary Medicine Regulations. Since the Veterinary Medicines Directorate has authorized no CBD animal product, such a purchase is illegal under law and can be halted at customs.
Conclusion: What is the Best CBD Oil for Dogs UK?
Because of their sensitivity to certain ingredients like THC, the best CBD oils for dogs are those made from pure organic ingredients. When purchasing CBD products for your pet in the UK, it is essential to find reputable brands that offer transparency on their products. This information is crucial as it lets you verify the presence of possible contaminants. However, your purchase can be halted at customs as no products was allowed by the Veterinary Medicine Regulations.
Sources:
- https://vmd.blog.gov.uk/2022/06/28/can-i-buy-cbd-oil-cannabidiol-for-my-pet/
- https://www.gov.uk/government/news/vmd-statement-on-veterinary-medicinal-products-containing-cannabidiol
- https://www.gov.uk/guidance/veterinary-medicines-regulations
- https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1971/38/contents
- https://www.bluecross.org.uk/advice/dog/cbd-for-dogs
I have been writing several articles on the Internet about natural products and eco-friendly ways to help with general wellbeing. I became interested in CBD when I traveled to the US. I believe everyone should have access to reviews and testimonials to obtain quality and certified products.
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