It’s not news that cannabidiol (CBD) is high in popularity and hemp products are all the rage. Across the U.S., people are jumping at CBD products for their posted benefits from its calming effects to alleviating pain. But what about animals? Just like their human owners, dogs can benefit from CBD, too.
Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol, a.k.a. THC, and the main part of cannabis that produces that high sensation, CBD is extracted from hemp or cannabis. Put simply, it’s a type of chemical naturally found in cannabis. It contains less than 0.3% THC and is often in gels, gummies, oils, extracts, supplements, and more. But don’t fret: CBD is not psychoactive the same way THC is, and it is safe for both you and your dog. In fact, studies suggest CBD has a range of potential health benefits for your pets.
Whether you’ve used CBD products before or not, you might be uncertain about using them for your dog. We’ve got you covered and can cure your curiosity about all things dogs and CBD. Here’s a quick overview of how CBD can help your dog and answers to some of the questions you may have.
How Does CBD Help Dogs?
Dogs’ endocannabinoid systems (which humans also have) affect their whole body: brain, heart, eyes, stomach, mood, and more. Cannabinoids (CBD) affect that system and have a range of effects.
CBD has been proven to help humans with depression, anxiety, inflammation, and more. The same goes for dogs. Some even say hemp calming for dogs is one of the best ways to combat your dog’s anxious behavior including destruction and hyperactivity.
Here are a few more benefits of CBD for dogs:
- Increased mobility
- Pain relief
- Decreased seizure activity
- Anti-inflammation
- Treat skin conditions
- Help with appetite loss
- Healthy GI function
- Treat depression and anxiety
What are the Risks of Using CBD?
Similar to humans, using CBD can pose some risks. Common issues include drowsiness and dry mouth, but everyone reacts differently. It all depends on how much CBD you give your pet. Higher doses make them more likely to experience side effects. It’s important to follow proper dosage. Give your dog a low dose when trying it out and raise it later over time as needed. Products should have a dosage chart on the seller’s website.
To help avoid those side effects, some suggest avoiding ingredients like artificial sweeteners and essential oils. Is it necessary to use pet-specific CBD products? Products designed for humans have the same CBD as products meant for pets. If the item is not made for pets specifically, read the label to check for the THC percentage and ingredients that could harm pets, such as artificial sweeteners, chocolate, and essential oils. And if you still have concerns, check with a veterinarian.
How Long Does CBD Stay in Your Dog’s System?
Typically, CBD can stay in your dog’s system for up to 24 hours. Some factors that can affect how long CBD will stay in your dog’s body include weight, diet, and frequency of CBD use.
Can Puppies Have CBD?
Whether you’re a brand-new dog owner or you’ve owned dogs for years, there’s always something to learn when it comes to a new puppy. When it comes to CBD, yes, you can give your puppy CBD. Start small with the dosage, see how they react, and go from there.
Where Can I Get CBD?
CBD comes in a range of products, from capsules to oils and even CBD dog food. Typically, CBD is in the form of oils, creams, lotions, gels, and treats. Check out your local pet stores to see what’s available near you or online for the slew of products out there.
The Bottom Line
Monitor your dog’s reaction and see if its symptoms are improving or not. Because CBD impacts every pet differently, you’ll want to test different products and find out what works best. Most importantly, discuss with a veterinarian whether CBD is a good choice for your dog. It’s also wise to schedule a visit with your vet and make sure your pet’s health is well-supported all around.
If you’re located in Tulsa or the surrounding area and are looking for the right vet for your furry friend, get in touch with the team at Oklahoma Veterinary Specialists today. We’ll talk soon!
