Holistic vets have been using CBD oil for dogs for quite a while now and they seem to be very satisfied with the results. But, as with any other wellness trend, for both animals and humans, too much information about CBD oil and CBD oil treats for dog is floating around, making pet owners rather confused, instead of convinced, when it comes to their benefits. Since we all want to do what’s best for our furry companions, I’ve tried to gather all the necessary facts regarding CBD oil for dogs, as well as the products based on it.
CBD stands for cannabidiol, a substance found in the hemp plant. Since hemp is the part of the cannabis family, many people assume that CBD oil also contains THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol), the compound with psychoactive properties. Even though CBD products can be derived from marijuana, in most cases, especially for the medical purposes, they are derived from hemp, therefore, they don’t contain THC. In other words, the dogs can get the relaxation from the CBD oil and CBD oil treats, without getting “high”.
Although there’s been no formal study on the effects of CBD oil on dogs’ health, it is scientifically proven that CBD interacts with certain receptors located in CNS (central nervous system) and PNS (peripheral nervous system) to maintain the body balance and keep it healthy.
Furthermore, there’s anecdotal evidence from vets and dog owners suggesting that CBD oil supports natural immune system and manages and prevents several numerous health issues, such as anxiety, neurological disorders, blood disorders, digestive issues, joint pain and arthritis, as well as tumors and cancers. CBD oil is also used for its cardiac benefits and anti-inflammatory properties.
According to the statistics, approximately 20% of dogs suffer from joint pain, either degenerative or developmental, in their lives. Whatever the cause, joint pain stops dogs from doing things they love, thus it reduces the quality of their lives. This medical condition is conventionally treated with pain medications, steroid injections, weight management, physical exercise or surgery. Holistic veterinarians, on the other hand, usually recommend CBD oil as a more affordable, less invasive and safer alternative.
The list of benefits associated with the use of CBD oil in dogs is really promising, isn’t it? Nevertheless, before reaching for this treatment method, it’s a good idea to know more about its side effects too. Unfortunately, there’s no (enough) scientific research on CBD oil side effects, but we do know how its effects on humans. CBD oil can decrease the production of saliva, manifesting as “dry mouth” or an increased thirst. When using higher doses, CBD could cause drowsiness and the feeling of light-headedness.
FDA has not approved CBD yet and the official dosing chart hasn’t been issued so far. For that reason, it’s unclear what size dosage is toxic (or lethal). Before giving your pet anything new, it’s better to start out with smaller amounts and, of course, to ask your vet for dosage recommendations.
Since all dogs respond differently to CBD oil products, it’s better, as already mentioned above, to start small and start slow. Pay a close attention to your pet after giving it any new supplement including CBD for the first time. If you give CBD in your pup’s treat or food, allow from 30 to 90 minutes. In case you give CBD sublingually (directly to the mouth), allow 15 to 70 minutes. But, if your dog is suffering from more chronic issues, allow two to five weeks for optimal results.
In you want to try CBD oil s as a treatment for your beloved pet, you should keep several things in mind when choosing the best CBD product. On the market there are too many options and not all CBD oil based products are the same. Undoubtedly, you want the best product for your dog, because you want it to actually work.
Choose organic. CBD oil shouldn’t contain solvents, fungicides, pesticides and similar substances. For that reason, it’s recommended to look for organic CBD oil treats, such as https://www.holistapet.com/products/cbd-for-dogs/.
Choose the best not the cheapest option. When it comes to the CBD oil, the higher the purity, the more expensive it is. Opt for the products without potentially dangerous compounds, additives and heavy metals. Also, you want the product with little to no THC content.
Finally, the fact that CBD is so trendy at the moment is good news. Continued interest in CBD oil and CBD oil based products leads to an increase research about its efficacy, use and advantages. Chances are, we’ll be getting even more CBD oil treats of even higher quality and it will be possible for our furry companions to live longer, healthier and happier.