Pet products that contain CBD (cannabidiol) are being developed at lightning speed. You can buy treats, chewy candies, gel capsules, powdered food supplements, and skin oils. You can can mix them into a liquid, food, or given in drops in your pet's mouth.
But how safe are they? How do you choose the right products? And how do you determine which dosages are right for your dog? Here's what you need to know about CBD for dogs.
What is CBD?
CBD is one of the many chemical compounds and active ingredients in cannabis. Cannabidiol comes from the hemp plant, a cousin of the cannabis plant. It isn't related to the ingredient in cannabis that can cause psychoactive effects. This ingredient is "Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol", or THC, and isn't present in CBD. You can buy CBD without a prescription. In most countries around the world, you can buy CBD, as long as it's derived from the hemp plant and doesn't contain more than 0.3% THC.
How does CBD work for your dog?
Dogs, like humans, have an endocannabinoid system (ECS) in their molecular structure. As signaling molecules, endocannabinoid cells have a role in telling the body's systems what the brain wants to achieve. These molecules send instructions to the immune system and major organs when the brain senses an imbalance. Anxiety, pain, digestive problems, stress or inflammation, among others.
Is CBD safe for dogs?
Good research takes time. Pet owners who want to provide relief to their dogs don't want to wait years for final scientific results. Dr. Jerry Klein, chief veterinarian of the American Kennel Club (AKC), has collected anecdotal evidence from dog owners who say CBD has helped treat pain or control seizures. He cites anxiety, nausea, loss of appetite, heart problems and inflammation as examples of areas where CBD can help.
Possible side effects of CBD in dogs may include:
- Dry mouth
- Low blood pressure
- Drowsiness, especially at higher doses
Did you know that CBD is classified as safe for dogs by the World Health Organization?
What is the experience of consumers with CBD dog oil?
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Dogs become calmer during travel. Some dogs never get used to driving and are very tense. Dogs are much calmer when exposed to cannabis oil while driving.
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More appetite. Some dog owners don't know what to do when a dog stops eating. In the past, cannabidiol has often been used to stimulate the appetite of dogs.
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Pain relief. It's also used as an analgesic and concomitant therapy. For example in the treatment of osteoarthritis and spondylosis.
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Help for relaxation and sleep. CBD is suitable for relaxation and sleep promotion for dogs that are restless or too upset in the evening.
Consult your veterinarians before starting any new treatments for your pet.
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