Headlines

State Bill Would Legalize Medical Marijuana for Pets

The state Veterinary Medical Board opposes the measure.

Published

5 years ago

June 25, 2019

PETS+ Staff

Medical marijuana would become legal for pets in California under a bill proposed in the state Senate, the Sacramento Bee reports.

According to the proposed law, a licensed veterinarian recommending cannabis products would be “entitled to the same protections as a physician and surgeon who makes a recommendation.”

The pet’s “primary caregiver” would be permitted to buy medical marijuana products under a veterinarian’s recommendation.

The bill is sponsored by Sen. Cathleen Galgiani, D-Stockton. It has passed the Senate and is now headed to a committee of the state Assembly.

The Veterinary Medical Board stands in opposition to the proposal.

The Bee quoted the board stating: “The board must be able to take action against veterinarians for negligent or incompetent cannabis use recommendations – especially if the recommendation resulted in animal harm. The bill’s lack of protection against negligent and incompetent cannabis recommendations by veterinarians would have serious impacts on the health and welfare of animal patients.”

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