Introduction
Many Australians turn to explore cannabis oil for personal health, pet owners also ask: “Can I give Rick Simpson Oil (RSO) to my dog in Australia?” With the growing evidence showing that cannabinoids may help manage pain, inflammation, and even cancer in pets, it’s natural to question if RSO is a safe option.
This post will explains everything you need to know about RSO for dogs in Australia, including its potential benefits, dosing, legal considerations, and how to avoid harming your pet.
What Is Rick Simpson Oil (RSO)?
Rick Simpson Oil is a full-spectrum cannabis extract known for its high THC content. Unlike CBD oil, which contains little or no THC, RSO includes:
- THC (often 70–90%)
- CBD
- Minor cannabinoids
- Terpenes
- Plant compounds
It’s widely used by humans for cancer support, chronic pain, and immune recovery, but giving it to pets requires special caution.
Can Dogs Tolerate THC?
Dogs also have an endocannabinoid system (ECS) like humans, which regulates pain, mood, appetite, and inflammation. However, their brains contain more cannabinoid receptors, especially in thier cerebellum and brainstem, making them more sensitive to THC than we humans.
What this means is:
- Small doses of THC can cause serious side effects in dogs
- RSO, bwhich is high in THC, can easily overwhelm your pet’s if not dosed properly
- While some owners have used RSO to treat cancer or arthritis in dogs, it must be done under the guidance of a Veterinarian
Is It Legal to Give RSO to Dogs in Australia?
In Australia, cannabis prescriptions by veterinary are still rare and strictly regulated. Currently:
- The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) does not approve RSO for veterinary use
- Most veterinarians are not legally allowed to prescribe cannabis or THC products for animals
- However, CBD is the only products being explored and may become more acceptable through intensive pharmacies or clinical trials
Important: Giving RSO to your dog without professional supervision may violate animal safety laws and could cause big risk to your pet’s health.
Potential Benefits of Cannabinoids for Dogs
While RSO is not yet approved for veterinary use in Australia, research and anecdotal reports shows that cannabinoids may help with:
- Cancer symptoms (pain, appetite loss, inflammation)
- Arthritis and mobility issues
- Chronic pain
- Epilepsy and seizures
- Anxiety and aggression
- Post-surgery recovery
Most of these benefits come from CBD-dominant products, which are non-psychoactive and much safer for pets.
What Are the Risks of Giving RSO to Dogs?
Since RSO contains very high THC, the risks are serious if not managed properly. If too much RSO is given to a dogs, it may experience:
- Disorientation or panic
- Vomiting
- Tremors or muscle rigidity
- Incontinence
- Difficulty walking
- Drooling
- Seizures (in rare cases)
- Coma (in extreme overdose cases)
THC toxicity in dogs is a medical emergency.
Always seek immediate vet care if your dog shows these symptoms.
RSO Alternatives for Pets in Australia
Instead of RSO, consider CBD pet tinctures made from hemp (0% THC) or CBD/CBDA veterinary compounds currently available through some experimental channels.
Safer Options Include:
- CBD oil for pets (hemp-derived, no THC)
- Vet-approved nutraceuticals
- Compounded cannabis formulations (by prescription)
Brands to watch in Australia: While limited, some overseas companies (like Canna-Pet or VetCBD) are paving the way—though they must comply with import and customs laws.
Guidelines If You Still Consider RSO for Your Dog (At Your Own Risk)
If, despite the risks, you choose to try RSO under your own discretion, follow these safety tips:
Start Tiny
A safe starting point might be 0.1mg THC per kg of body weight, once daily. RSO is incredibly potent—a grain of rice-sized amount can contain 30–50mg THC.
Dilute It
Mix RSO with MCT oil or coconut oil to help dilute and make accurate dosing much easier.
Watch Closely
Monitor your dog for:
- Sleepiness or sedation
- Pacing or panting
- Loss of coordination
- Pupil dilation
Avoid Edibles or Human Doses
Never give your dog RSO products which are designed for humans (like gummies or capsules). These contain unsafe ingredients like xylitol or chocolate.
Final Thoughts — Should You Give RSO to Your Dog in Australia?
At this time, RSO is not recommended for pets in Australia unless under strict veterinary supervision. Meanwhile some owners have reported success in treating conditions such as canine cancer or pain with microdoses, the risks are quite significant, and safer alternatives like CBD oil are more appropriate.
If your pet is suffering, always speak with a holistic vet or integrative pet specialist who is familiar with cannabinoid therapy. As Australia’s regulations evolve, better options will become available.
Looking for CBD-based alternatives for pets instead of high-THC RSO? Browse our pet-safe cannabinoid wellness options
Learn more about veterinary cannabis science from the Australian Veterinary Association