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BSAVA publishes new document on use of CBD oil in dogs and cats
"This document aims to provide a broad overview of the available evidence base and legal position in the UK for veterinary team members." - Caroline Kisielewicz, author.

Association outlines UK legal position and current scientific research

BSAVA has released a new scientific document for the veterinary profession on the use of cannabidiol (CBD) in companion animals.

The document has been published in response to an increased interest in the use of CBD to treat cats and dogs. It was written by members of the BSAVA Scientific Committee, alongside specialists in internal medicine and neurology.

Included in the document are details on the legal position regarding the use of CBD oil in companion animals in the UK, as well as the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of CBD in humans and dogs and an overview of current scientific research.

Author and BSAVA Scientific Committee member, Caroline Kisielewicz, said: “Information regarding the effects of cannabinoids on animals is predominantly at the stage of pre-clinical testing of individual substances in mice, rats and guinea pigs. There are limited clinical studies looking at the effects of CBD in dogs, and no reported studies in cats.

“There are many reports describing possible beneficial effects and therapeutic potential in humans, and subsequently pet owners may ask their vet about using cannabinoids to treat veterinary patients. This document aims to provide a broad overview of the available evidence base and legal position in the UK for veterinary team members.”

The Use of cannabidiol (CBD) in dogs and cats information document is available for free on the BSAVA website.

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VMD invites students to apply for EMS placement

News Story 1
 The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) is inviting applications from veterinary students to attend a one-week extramural studies (EMS) placement in July 2026.

Students in their clinical years of study have until 28 February to apply for the placement, which takes place at the VMD's offices in Addlestone, Surrey, from 6-10 July 2026.

Through a mixture of lectures and workshops, the placement will explore how veterinary medicines are authorised, non-clinical career opportunities, and other important aspects of the VMD's work.  

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News Shorts
Survey seeks ruminant sector views on antimicrobial stewardship

A new survey is seeking views of people working in the UK ruminant sector on how to tackle the challenge of demonstrating responsible antibiotic stewardship.

Forming part of a wider, collaborative initiative, the results will help identify the types of data available so that challenges with data collection can be better understood and addressed.

Anyone working in the UK farming sector, including vets and farmers,is encouraged to complete the survey, which is available at app.onlinesurveys.jisc.ac.uk