Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of the most popular wellness ingredients today. It is now being infused into common everyday items, and people are finding novel uses for it regularly. And now, it appears that man’s best friend and other furbabies can benefit from it as well. So what are the benefits of using CBD for dogs and other pets?
The Endocannabinoid System
Currently, there are no formal studies that determine with scientific certainty the effects of CBD for dogs. What science does know is that CBD appears to interact with the cannabinoid receptors of the endocannabinoid system (ECS).
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is found in all animal species except insects. It also appears to function the same way and for the same purposes regardless of species. This means that both dogs and cats have an ECS.
The ECS responds to the endocannabinoids created by the body and phytocannabinoids or external sources of cannabinoids. A prime example is CBD, which may reduce anxiety, depression, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, chronic inflammation, diabetes, and even opioid withdrawals.
Stimulating the ECS appears to promote homeostasis, reduce pain, and decrease inflammations.
CBD for Dogs
There is no definitive science to back up the efficacy of CBD for dogs. However, there is anecdotal evidence that CBD may help reduce pain like neuropathic pain and even control seizures.
Similar to humans, CBD may have anti-inflammatory properties and cardiac health benefits. CBD may also provide anti-nausea, appetite stimulation, anti-anxiety, and even anti-cancer benefits for dogs too.
A future study in the works will attempt to determine the effects of CBD on treatment-resilient epileptic dogs. It hopes to be the pioneer in this space and gather valuable data on using CBD for dogs with this condition.
Possible Side Effects
As CBD has side effects on humans, it is possible that CBD also has similar manifestations on dogs and cats. For instance, CBD used on pets may result in dry mouth manifesting as thirst, lowered blood pressure, and drowsiness.
Higher doses of CBD have been observed to dip blood pressure. Even if the dip is slight, this may result in light-headedness. In people, CBD that is used to relieve anxiety symptoms has sometimes resulted in slight drowsiness at higher doses.
CBD Risks in Pets
There is no formal study on the exact risks of using CBD for dogs. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has also note released any guidelines or regulations on the best ways to use CBD.
Without an official dosing chart, it is impossible to state with certainty the toxic dosages of CBD in humans, dogs, or cats. CBD is to be treated as a supplement, which means it will carry a risk of reaction.
When giving your pet dog or cat CBD products, it is advisable always to start small doses. Closely monitor the effects and always consult your veterinarian first.
How to Buy CBD Products for Pets
If, after consulting your veterinarian, you have decided to try CBD for your pets, there are a few things to keep in mind. Remember that not all CBD oils are created equally. High-quality oils will always have a better chance of working compared to substandard products.
Here are some things to look out for when buying CBD for dogs or cats:
Choose Organic
Good organic products must meet strict FDA criteria to be certified organic. It is not as simple as just avoiding pesticides. The organic hemp used to create CBD oil must be grown in clean and healthy soil free of heavy metals, among other toxins.
Cheaper may not always be best
You might think that the cheap CBD oils offer value for your dollar. However, it is generally true that better CBD oils are more expensive. Cheaper CBD brands may not guarantee that their CBD is free of pesticides, herbicides, and heavy metals that may be byproducts of the extraction process.
Ask for a Certificate of Analysis
The best CBD brands such as BlosumCBD are transparent about their products. Knowing exactly what is in the CBD they sell is a prime selling point for these brands. A common way to provide this guarantee is to have Certificates of Analysis (CoA) issued by third-party testers.
Be sure to look out for the CBD concentrations that they claim to have and verify it with the CoA. You would also want to make sure that the CBD chews for dogs you are buying contain no THC, a psychoactive compound.
Buy CBD liquids
As you know, CBD is offered in many different forms, like gummies and oils. For your pet, it may be challenging to administer solid CBD forms like capsules. With liquids, you can also control the dosage a bit more and add to it by the drop.
Final Thoughts
It may be beneficial for your pets to intake CBD. Ask your veterinarian for their recommendation first, and always start with small doses. It is best to simply add to the dose gradually instead of discovering that the dose you gave was too much. Finally, be sure to look for CoA’s and to read the labels of the best CBD for dogs.
Written by: Grace Hawkins
