By Mitch Rice
CBD for pets is more popular than ever before. In addition to the explosion of CBD products for pets, consumers have also been warming up to the idea of giving their dogs and cats these products for everything from pain and anxiety to arthritis.
But before you use CBD oil for dog seizures, there are a few essential things you should know.
What is CBD?
The acronym CBD refers to cannabidiol, a chemical compound in hemp and marijuana plants.
It works on both humans’ and pets’ endocannabinoid systems (ECS). A pet’s endocannabinoid system is a unique communication system in the brain and body that affects several functions, including how the animal moves, feels and reacts.
CBD can potentially help dogs with calming, relaxation, and possibly even osteoarthritis pain relief.
Is CBD safe for dogs?
Can you give CBD oil to dogs? CBD oil has become increasingly popular among humans, but can it be administered to dogs? Can it be given to them safely? Veterinary scientists are just beginning to study CBD oil for dogs, yet veterinarians have begun to recommend it.
A small study found that healthy dogs tolerated CBD well but reported that it slightly raised their serum ALP levels (liver enzyme) and reported some mild diarrhea. Furthermore, the researchers found no immediate liver toxicity in dogs.
Researchers have found that cannabinoids relieve pain and anxiety and fight seizures, spasms, and neural disorders. There have been several reports from pet parents who talk about the benefits of CBD for their dogs on online forums and social media.
Potential benefits of CBD for dogs
CBD offers various benefits for dogs such as:
- Helping manage stress
- Supporting the immune system
- Supporting brain and nerve function
- Having an anti-inflammatory effect
- Improving cardiovascular health
- Supporting connective tissue and joint health
- Relieving stiffness and soreness
- Reducing damage caused by free radicals
- Helping maintain disposition
- Supporting antioxidant function
- Potentially helping with allergies
Can CBD make your dog “high”?
As previously stated, CBD does not cause a euphoric or high feeling. Although some people say that their pets seem a bit off-kilter after taking CBD, there are others who claim the opposite.
Your pet may look “high” after taking their dose, but there is a reason for this. When buying CBD products, please read the label closely for specific details about their contents. Depending on the product, full-spectrum means it can contain up to 0.3% THC – the upper limit stipulated by the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 for the state of California. Despite its seemingly small amount, it can cause extreme side effects in pets, especially if they are hypersensitive to it.
Can you use human CBD products for your dog?
Animal products contain the same amount of CBD as those designed for humans. You can give your pet human CBD, but you should follow your vet’s recommendations. You should read the label for any products not made specifically for pets to make sure there are no toxic ingredients like essential oils, chocolate, or artificial sweeteners.
Pet-specific CBD products are often flavored with chicken or fish chews to appeal to your pet. They are also usually free of harmful ingredients. You should know that some CBD products may have a grassy taste, making giving it to your pet more challenging. If your pet doesn’t like the product you chose, try hiding it in peanut butter or a treat of its choice.
Things to consider before administering CBD to your dog
● Check for the certificate of analysis (COA)
Make sure the label includes a Certificate of Analysis (COA). It indicates that the lab test results about the THC content in the product are authentic. It is best to have zero THC for dogs.
The COA should include three tests:
- Microbial Test: Provides results for pathogens such as salmonella and E. coli.
- Heavy Metals Test: Lists pollutant results, including lead.
- Pesticides Test: Analyzes pesticides, which is necessary since some organic CBD products may contain pesticides from other crops.
A CBD seller who cannot provide the COA on his website or the product label should be avoided. A dog CBD product with a COA is genuine since it has nothing to hide. You can talk to your vet, ask your friends, or search the web to find a reputable CBD vendor.
● Choose CBD with no THC
Cannabis and hemp plants both contain CBD. However, CBD from cannabis has a THC content of more than 0.3%. THC, in any amount, can be toxic to dogs. It may cause diarrhea, vomiting, and many other undesirable effects. Look for CBD products for dogs that contain no THC.
● Never use hemp oil
Various manufacturers refer to their CBD products as “hemp oil” and claim that they are suitable for your dog’s health. Hemp oil contains little CBD and cannot improve your dog’s health. If CBD is added to hemp seed oil, the product is perfectly safe to be given to your pup. Ensure the product has the right amount of CBD by checking the certificate of analysis.
● Choose broad-spectrum CBD
Our furry friends are best off with CBD broad-spectrum products. A broad-spectrum CBD oil is of most benefit to dogs since it contains CBD and has many natural cannabinoids and terpenes.
● Check the dosage
There is no FDA regulation of CBD for dogs yet, and dosage is still unknown. That is why before using CBD oil for dog seizures, you should consult with your veterinarian.
CBD is proved to be both safe and effective for dogs. According to research, the dogs’ dosage should be based on their weight, 2 mg/kg.
If you give the wrong dosage to your dog, it may either be ineffective or cause minor side effects.
Conclusion
Recent research suggests CBD can help pets deal with anxiety, chronic pain, and seizures. Despite its need for further research, many pet parents are already using CBD with great success.
It would be helpful if you always consult a veterinarian who has treated pets with CBD before starting anything new because these products haven’t been reviewed or approved by the FDA. Together, you will determine the best way to safely help your pet feel its best.
