Health: Pot For Pets

By Stephanie Stahl

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- We know marijuana can help people with a variety of ailments. Now, there are supplements for animals that contain a marijuana extract.

This isn't about getting pets high or stoned, the marijuana compound used in the animal supplements is for medicinal purposes only.

It's no ordinary dog treat. Dutchie is getting a canine snack made with a compound found in marijuana.  His owner Jane Fulton says, "I was amazed at how well he did."

The biscuits contain CBD, a cannabinoid in pot that can provide pain relief without a high.  Fulton says, "He really couldn't take one of the drugs that was common for hip dysplasia and pain.  I was looking for alternatives and this was definitely an alternative that worked for him."

The hemp treats also worked for Leo, who had seizures. His owner Chiara Subhas says he was, "Just violently shaking, his mouth open, his eyes rolling back, drooling."

Experts say the hemp supplements can be effective, but there's limited research.  Veterinarian Lisa Moses says, "There's a lot of potential for it's use as a pain reliever."

But many veterinarians are concerned because there are no established standards or dosage levels.  Moses says, "There's no real regulation on them.  We don't have any information on whether they are safe, and how they will work with other medications, but also don't have any information that says they are not safe."

The Food and Drug Administration recently issued a warning to some manufacturers for marketing unapproved drugs.

The treats are also used for anxiety and inflammation.

Jane says, "To see him struggling was heartbreaking and we wanted to do something for him, so we gave it a try and it worked, and it was just glorious to see that."

The hemp supplements, available online, are sold in other forms like pills and can be used for cats. Be sure to talk to your vet first.

It's never safe to give real marijuana to pets that can cause dangerous even deadly reactions.