Cannabidiol (CBD) is a naturally occurring chemical in cannabis and hemp plants.
Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), another naturally occurring compound found in cannabis, CBD is non-psychoactive. Thus it does not produce a high.
Although research on CBD has advanced only to the early stages, studies and anecdotal evidence have found strong evidence regarding CBD’s monumental role in treating conditions of cancer, arthritis, chronic pain, and anxiety.
CBD pet products are the only natural way to treat these conditions in dogs, which makes CBD the most sought-after product by pet owners who believe in the organic wellbeing of their pets.
It is essential to understand that not all CBD products on sale are safe or beneficial for pets.
In addition, no CBD products have been approved by the FDA for use in animals, neither as a drug nor as a food.
This article will cover existing research into CBD use for dogs and shed ample light on the associated risks and benefits to help you make a sound decision.
What Is The Stance Of Veterinarians On CBD?
Out of the 2,131 participants of a survey undertaken by VIN News Service, 63 percent of veterinarians reported being asked at least one question per month pertaining to the use of CBD for pet care.
As veterinarians who suggest clients use CBD products for their pets are penalized or get their license suspended in some states, most veterinarians are hesitant to discuss CBD even behind closed doors.
In certain other states, Veterinarians have been bestowed with more freedom. For example, California recently passed a law that prevents penalization of veterinarians by regulators for discussing cannabis use with their clients, including toxicities and potential side effects.
Other bills like this are in the works, but for now, don’t expect your veterinarian to recommend CBD products, and don’t expect a prescription.
Even in states with legalized cannabis use for medicinal and recreational uses, the ambit of the law calls for only a human healthcare provider to prescribe cannabis to humans only. Veterinarians are yet to be authorized to prescribe, dispense, administer or recommend CBD products for animal use.
Key Takeaway
Since no detrimental research on CBD is available in the public domain, its safety and efficacy are unknown to many. Therefore, always consult your veterinarian before going ahead with any CBD product for your pet. Unfortunately, if you are a resident of a few states that penalizes veterinarians for discussing CBD and its products, your veterinarian might be of little or no help at all.
Applications Of CBD For Dogs
Research on CBD for humans has proven to be conclusive that it can be used for effectively treating chronic pain, anxiety, epilepsy, and irritable bowel disease. But the number of reliable studies on the effect of CBD in dogs is comparatively lesser.
Research done on CBD and humans has shown that it may effectively treat epilepsy, anxiety, irritable bowel disease (IBD), and chronic pain. But only a few reliable studies have been done on the effects of CBD in dogs.
In a study conducted to assess the safety, anti-pain, and anti-inflammatory properties of CBD oils for dogs with arthritis, dogs were given doses of 2 or 8 milligrams (mg) per kilogram (kg) of their body weight.
According to two veterinary sources, eighty percent of the dogs showed improved mobility and reduced pain — the canine brief pain inventory and the Hudson activity scale.
CBD for dog joint pain has shown remarkable results in dogs across various breeds and regions.
Another study published in 2019, Trusted Source, found that epileptic dogs, when given CBD in addition to seizure medication, had significantly fewer seizures with respect to dogs that received seizure medication in addition to a placebo.
While such studies certainly pave the way for exploring the medical potential of CBD for dogs, more concrete and definitive studies are required to validate these researches.
Ways To Administer CBD To Dogs
CBD for dogs is available in various forms such as oils, creams, and treats. However, research regarding the efficacy of each is sparse.
A study by the Colorado State University from 2018 Trusted Source on dogs suffering from epilepsy found that CBD oil administered orally was far more effective than any gel or capsule. However, more research is awaited before drawing definite conclusions.
How Much CBD Should I Give My Dog?
A 2018 study conducted on dogs with osteoarthritis suggests that the most effective dose for optimum comfort and activity of a dog was 2 mg of CBD per kg of their body weight.
However, since more detailed data on CBD dosage for dogs is sparse, a veterinarian would be the right person to recommend an appropriate dosage depending upon your dogs’ unique characteristics and ailments.
Every dog’s response to CBD dosage will be different, which is why it is crucial to start with a small dose as you carefully monitor your pet’s results and then gradually adjust accordingly. Despite most products suggesting the amount of dosings, these are merely suggestions made by the manufacturer, which should be revised with an expert animal veterinarian.
The lack of regulation for CBD products puts a big question mark on their safety and efficacy.
Here are a few tips on how to effectively administer CBD products to your pets:
- Administer low doses initially.
- Take note of your pet’s reactions.
- If needed, increase dose potency gradually.
How To Make The Right Choice
Since the FDA is yet to regulate CBD, the quality of the products available in the market varies immensely.
While selecting CBD products for your pet, a healthy thumb rule is to look up the seller’s website for a “certificate of analysis” and other reliable evidence of third-party testing. These certificates are an excellent measure for finding whether the product contains any pesticides or metals and if the quality is up to the mark.
Also, look out for whether the product also contains THC in addition to CBD. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) has listed THC as a toxic substance for dogs and cats.
Thoroughly research every brand before purchasing, and consult your veterinarian regarding the probable side effects and toxicities these products might induce in your pet during the treatment.
What Is The Effect Of CBD On Dogs?
Watch your dog for a negative or a positive reaction after administering them with CBD.
For example, if you give your dog a CBD dose 20 minutes before a firework show and find them lying comfortably rather than cowering in a corner, chances are the CBD has proved to be effective.
Or if your dog is suffering from arthritis-related mobility issues, and it is back to its regular running and jumping self, the chances are that the CBD is working its magic within your dog.
Lethargy, dribbling urine, vomiting, excessive panting, and lack of balance are the negative effects one should look out for. When your pet indicates any of the mentioned symptoms, they have consumed too much CBD and are experiencing toxic effects. It is best to visit your veterinarian in such a condition, regardless of whether they are eager to discuss CBD with you or not.