Idaho’s ban on CBD and hemp-derived products only harms animals even more, because people give it to them regardless of regulations, according to a national group devoted to the wellbeing of animals and pets. 

It’s a complicated issue that oscillates between the urgent need for CBD oil for dogs and cats that have seizures and other issues, and the need to prove CBD is beneficial in those areas before making medical claims and eventually getting the blessing from the FDA.

Idaho’s cannabis laws are some of most restrictive in the country. Idaho is the only state that has allowed CBD to be sold, while a small number of states remain resistant. In July of last year, Idaho State Department of Agriculture (ISDA), declared a ban on CBD products, and any other hemp-derived products, which will go into effect in November. 

“Idaho Code 25-2712 (1) states that it is unlawful to “manufacture or distribut[e] any commercial feed that is adulterated or misbranded.” Therefore, pursuant to state law and consistent with the FDA and AAFCO [Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO)], the ISDA has not approved hemp or hemp-derived products for animal use,” Department officials wrote.

But members of the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC) believe that Idaho’s ban puts animals in even more danger because CBD products need certificates of analysis and need to be vetted under a regulatory program. 

So the NASC called people to action on the Council’s website and launched a petition on Change.org. At the time this article was written, nearly 3000 people had signed the petition.

“The Idaho State Department of Agriculture intends to stop the sale of dosage form pet products (animal health supplements) that contain hemp and CBD, beginning on November 1, 2022,” the petition reads.

“This decision will likely harm animals whose owners will no longer be able to access the products their pets rely on for a variety of health and wellness reasons. Idaho’s businesses who manufacture or sell these products will be adversely affected.

It opens up the possibility of a black market for unscrupulous sellers selling CBD products to animals that may endanger them. It may also lead to pet owners turning to human products that aren’t formulated for pets or marijuana products that contain high levels of THC.”

The NASC has a very specific twofold mission: “to promote the health and wellbeing of companion animals and horses that are given animal health supplements by their owners, and to protect and enhance the animal health supplement industry.”

Viral videos show CBD oil stopping seizures in dogs in real time.

For instance, professional British boxer Anthony Fowler posted a videoA seizure in a dog and the speed CBD oil prevented it from happening. A viral video also shows CBD oil stopping seizures in another dog within a matter of minutes.

Other national organisations say that CBD products for pets are safe despite some anecdotal reports.

Not everyone’s onboard, however, which includes the FDA. A joint open letter by several organizations, including the Association of American Feed Control Officials (“AAFCO”) earlier this year warned about potential health issues with hemp and CBD in pet foods and animal feeds.

To sign the petition, click here