FDA Warns Dog Owners About Using Unregulated CBD Products for Firework Anxiety

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is once again warning pet owners about the use of unregulated CBD products for treating anxiety in dogs during the Fourth of July fireworks. For the third year in a row, the FDA has acknowledged the increasing trend of using CBD for pets who get anxious from loud noises, but has admitted that it has not evaluated the efficacy of this treatment option.

In a series of tweets, the FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine highlighted the ongoing conversation about using CBD for pets who react to loud noises, particularly fireworks. The agency emphasized that it has not evaluated these products and cannot confirm their safety, effectiveness, or CBD content.

Despite the growing popularity of CBD for pets, the FDA has yet to conduct research on the safety and efficacy of these products. This has led to frustration among advocates and pet owners who are seeking alternative treatments for their animals.

While CBD and hemp-derived products were legalized under the 2018 Farm Bill, the FDA is responsible for regulating these products for use in food and dietary supplements, including for pets. Lawmakers have urged the FDA to expedite regulations that would allow for more CBD-infused products to enter the market.

Although the FDA has not evaluated CBD for pets, there have been studies indicating potential benefits for conditions such as epilepsy and osteoarthritis in dogs. Anecdotal evidence also suggests that CBD can help alleviate anxiety in pets, especially during events like Independence Day fireworks.

Celebrities like comedian Sarah Silverman have shared their positive experiences with using CBD to calm their pets during fireworks. As the conversation around CBD for pets continues to gain traction, the FDA faces pressure to evaluate the safety and efficacy of these products for animal use.