CBD, or Cannabidiol, is one of the key compounds found in the cannabis plant. While cannabis itself has been associated with drug usage and has negative connotations, CBD itself is actually quite beneficial and has been studied extensively with promising results in the field of healthcare for humans, as well as canines.
CBD Oil For Dogs
While extracted from the cannabis plant, CBD itself has no psychoactive properties and has been used in the treatment of various ailments that plague dogs such as anxiety, chronic pain, arthritis, and dietary issues. There is no scientific study that proves CBD is a cure to any of these illnesses, but there is ample evidence that CBD is a great complement in the treatment of all these ailments.
CBD helps dog’s health by stimulating the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the right places. The ECS regulates different bodily functions such as mood and appetite and also affects your body’s overall immunity.
Pet Health Benefits
Human CBD usage consists mostly of people who use it to help in the treatment of anxiety. CBD is being used for the same purposes when it comes to dogs as well. By acting on certain receptors in the brain, CBD is able to minimize and contain the symptoms of anxiety (rather than treating the anxiety itself). This helps identify the bigger issue while keeping things contained.
In dogs, the most common symptoms of anxiety are pacing, spontaneous urination, and agitation. CBD will help with these behavioral issues. Even if your dog doesn’t suffer from chronic anxiety and is going through a tough time after surgery, or is jittery due to a long journey, CBD can help as a temporary relaxant. Read more about the health benefits of CBD oil for dogs.
Anti-inflammatory
CBD also acts on the CB1 and CB2 receptors in the brain, which helps alleviate inflammation and reduce pain. This anti-inflammatory characteristic of CBD makes it a great complement in managing pain associated with different ailments including neuropathy pain, general inflammation, arthritis, post-surgical pain, pancreatitis, and asthma.
Dietary Issues And Nausea
One of the most common signs of cannabis usage is increased appetite and reduced nausea. CBD, as an independent compound, has shown similar properties and can help with a range of dietary issues that your dog could be experiencing. As the ECS regulates the digestive system as well, it’s no surprise that CBD has such an effect.
K9 Care & Possible Side-effects
In clinical studies, CBD has shown little to no side effects. Some side-effects include lethargy, drooling, vomiting, agitation, or tremors, but some evidence has suggested that this could be due to dosage issues more than CBD itself. Such side-effects are addressed by adjusting the dosage you administer (just lower the amount of CBD you’re giving your dog).
Your bigger concern should be to ensure that you’re buying PURE CBD products and none of them contain any THC whatsoever. THC is known to be toxic to dogs, so its best to check the label before you give your dog a life-threatening concoction. Hemp extracted CBD is a better choice when it comes to dogs.
Regardless, it’s always best to consult with your vet before you try anything new!
