Introduction
With more Americans turning to Rick Simpson Oil (RSO) for pain relief, anxiety, cancer care, and seizures, a common question has emerged among pet owners: Can dogs use RSO too? While it’s understandable to explore natural alternatives for your dog’s health, especially in cases like arthritis or terminal illness, RSO’s high THC content makes it risky and potentially harmful if misused.
This guide explains when (and if) RSO can be used for dogs, what the risks are, what safer alternatives exist, and how to make informed, veterinarian-approved decisions.
What Is RSO and Why Consider It for Dogs?
Rick Simpson Oil is a full-spectrum cannabis oil known for containing extremely high THC concentrations (often 70–90%). While it’s widely used in human medicine for conditions like:
- Cancer
- Chronic pain
- Nausea
- Inflammation
- Seizures
Some dog owners have considered RSO for similar pet health issues, including:
- Arthritis and joint stiffness
- Anxiety or noise phobia
- Appetite loss due to illness
- Cancer support or palliative care
However, dogs process THC very differently than humans, and even small doses can be dangerous.
Is THC Safe for Dogs?
No — dogs are far more sensitive to THC than humans. While tiny, carefully measured doses may have therapeutic potential, most veterinarians strongly caution against giving RSO to pets without professional oversight.
Symptoms of THC Toxicity in Dogs Include:
- Disorientation and stumbling
- Vomiting or excessive drooling
- Lethargy or stupor
- Urinary incontinence
- Tremors or seizures
- Abnormal heart rate or temperature
- Sensitivity to light and noise
In severe cases, THC toxicity can require hospitalization.
When Might RSO Be Considered for Dogs?
Although rare, there are limited situations where a veterinary cannabis expert might recommend RSO microdosing, such as:
- End-stage cancer
- Refractory epilepsy (where CBD alone is ineffective)
- Palliative care, where quality of life is the focus
If used at all, it should be:
- Strictly supervised by a vet
- Dosed under 0.1mg of THC per kg of body weight
- Introduced gradually with close monitoring
Most conventional vets do not support the use of RSO in pets due to these safety concerns.
Safer Alternatives to RSO for Dogs
Instead of RSO, most veterinarians recommend pet-safe cannabis formulations:
1. CBD Oil (Hemp-Derived, THC-Free)
- Great for inflammation, anxiety, arthritis, and mild seizures
- Legal across the U.S.
- Available in pet-specific strengths and flavors
2. Full-Spectrum Pet Tinctures (Low-THC)
- Contain trace THC (<0.3%)
- Useful for chronic illness and aging dogs
- Should be dosed based on vet recommendations
3. CBD Treats and Chews
- Easy to administer
- Helpful for calming, joint mobility, and overall wellness
- Dosed according to dog weight
These products are widely available and much safer than RSO for routine use.
How to Talk to Your Vet About Cannabis for Pets
If you’re considering cannabis-based support for your dog:
- Ask your vet if they are familiar with cannabinoid therapy
- Share product labels or COAs (lab results) with them
- Start with CBD-only products unless advised otherwise
- Use a pet-specific brand that offers proper dosing guidelines
Veterinary cannabis consulting is becoming more common in states like California, Oregon, Colorado, and Michigan.
Legal Considerations for Dogs and RSO in the U.S. (2025)
- THC-rich cannabis (like RSO) remains restricted for pet use federally
- Veterinarians cannot prescribe THC products in most states
- CBD derived from hemp (under 0.3% THC) is legal for pets nationwide
- States with legal cannabis may allow vets to advise or recommend cannabis therapy under specific conditions
Never use RSO in pets without checking local laws and getting vet approval.
Final Thoughts: RSO for Dogs Is Rare—and Risky
RSO is a powerful tool in human health care, but its high THC levels can seriously harm dogs if used improperly. While some pet owners have turned to it for extreme cases, RSO should only ever be used for pets under veterinary supervision—and even then, only in very specific circumstances.
For the majority of canine conditions, CBD oil or low-THC tinctures designed for pets are safer, effective, and widely available. Always prioritize your dog’s safety and speak to your vet before introducing any cannabis-based products.
Looking for vet-approved CBD oils and chews for your pet’s comfort and health? Explore our pet wellness product here
American Veterinary Medical Association guidance on THC and CBD for pets: avma.org