“Around the five- or six-month mark, the oral cancer started to get so large that it took up his entire face,” says Dr. Hazzah. “The bladder cancer was getting worse, lymphoma was static. The owners went over the options again, and one of the things we discussed was cannabis. As an integrative oncologist, I felt that I should guide them through the process to make sure it was safe. The dog was less than 20 pounds, so he had 1 mg of THC and 1 mg of CBD, twice a day, along with targeted therapy.”
I came across this article featuring Dr. Hazzah over the weekend. I’ve attended many of her lectures, and her insights were instrumental in my journey to earning the Veterinary Cannabis Counselor Certification in 2020. Dr. Hazzah is an incredible oncologist who uses cannabinoids to treat cancer in animals, and her research has shown that THC can have a significant impact on cancer cells.
THC and Dogs: What You Need to Know
THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) often gets a bad reputation when it comes to pets, and for good reason—dogs have a very sensitive endocannabinoid system (ECS). Giving your dog THC without proper guidance can result in intoxication, which can be harmful. That’s why it’s crucial to involve a DVM (Doctor of Veterinary Medicine) or a Veterinary Cannabis Counselor (VCC), like me, when exploring cannabis options for your pet.
For most dogs, CBD combined with minor cannabinoids (like CBG or CBC) does plenty of work without the need to introduce significant amounts of THC. However, in specific cases like cancer, THC can play a vital role when used in a controlled and methodical way.
The Science Behind THC in Cancer Treatment
In her practice, Dr. Hazzah observed that THC can induce apoptosis (programmed cell death) and autophagy (destruction of damaged cells), effectively killing cancer cells. This is groundbreaking in the realm of veterinary oncology. Just as in humans, dogs can build a tolerance to THC over time, allowing veterinarians to ease them into a treatment plan tailored to their specific needs.
A Real-Life Success Story
I’ve seen the benefits of a balanced cannabinoid formula firsthand. A couple of years ago, I created a 1:1 THC to CBD tincture for a pitbull undergoing heartworm treatment. She required strict cage rest to avoid cardiopulmonary complications, but staying calm in confinement was a challenge.
We started with over 60 mg of full-spectrum hemp, and when that wasn’t enough, we slowly introduced the 1:1 formula. The results were incredible—she stayed calm, showed no signs of intoxication, wagged her tail, and even seemed to look forward to her tincture before heading to her kennel. Her owner was so grateful, and the dog thrived on the formula.
Why Hippie Hounds Products Stand Out
At Hippie Hounds, we use full-spectrum hemp in all our products, which includes trace amounts of THC (less than 0.3%, in compliance with federal regulations). This trace amount is enough to contribute to the Entourage Effect—the powerful synergy of cannabinoids and terpenes working together for enhanced benefits.
Unlike many competitors who use CBD isolate, our full-spectrum formulas retain all the beneficial compounds of the hemp plant, providing more effective results. Whether it’s addressing anxiety, supporting wellness, or aiding in recovery, our products are designed to help your furry friend thrive.
When to Consider Full-Spectrum Hemp
If your pet is dealing with a serious condition like cancer or needs extra support during treatment, consult with a trusted veterinarian or VCC to explore cannabis-based options. At Hippie Hounds, we’re here to provide safe, reliable solutions you can trust for your pet’s well-being.