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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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Birmingham Dogs Home makes urgent appeal

News Story 1
 Birmingham Dogs Home has issued an urgent winter appeal as it faces more challenges over the Christmas period.

The rescue centre has seen a dramatic increase in dogs coming into its care, and is currently caring for over 200 dogs. With rising costs and dropping temperatures, the charity is calling for urgent support.

It costs the charity £6,000 per day to continue its work.

Fi Harrison, head of fundraising and communications, said: "It's heart-breaking for our team to see the conditions some dogs arrive in. We really are their last chance and hope of survival."

More information about the appeal can be found here

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Avian flu confirmed at premises in Cornwall

A case of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been detected in commercial poultry at a premises near Rosudgeon, Cornwall.

All poultry on the infected site will be humanely culled, and a 3km protection zone and 10km surveillance zone have been put in place. Poultry and other captive birds in the 3km protection zone must be housed.

The case is the second avian flu case confirmed in commercial poultry this month. The H5N5 strain was detected in a premises near Hornsea, East Riding of Yorkshire, in early November. Before then, the disease had not been confirmed in captive birds in England since February.

The UK chief veterinary officer has urged bird keepers to remain alert and practise robust biosecurity.

A map of the disease control zones can be found here.