As with any pet health trend, there is a lot of information floating around the internet when it comes to CBD oil for dogs, and it’s hard to know what’s accurate and what’s exaggerated. Of course, you want to do what’s best for your pup, so the question is: What do I need to know about CBD oil for dogs?
AKC Chief Veterinary Officer Dr. Jerry Klein explains what CBD oil is, what it does to dogs, safety concerns, and potential side effects.
CBD products on the market
If you and your vet decide that you should try CBD as a treatment for your dog, there are a few things to keep in mind when purchasing CBD oil. Not all oils are created equal; you’ll want a high-quality CBD oil to have a better chance of working.
-Look for organic. If CBD oil for dogs is not organic, it should not contain pesticides, fungicides or solvents.
-Buy not just on price. Higher quality and purity are usually associated with higher costs. The cheaper version may contain toxic substances such as pesticides, herbicides or heavy metals. Make sure there are no additives in your CBD oil.
-Get analysis. The manufacturer should provide a certificate confirming the amount of CBD in the product. Many CBD products contain only small amounts of CBD. You’ll also want to make sure the product has little or no THC.
-Buy CBD as a liquid. You can buy dog treats that contain CBD, but it’s best to give them an oil or tincture. This way you can adjust your dog’s dose drop by drop.
What health problems can CBD oil treat in dogs?
While there is no definitive scientific data on the use of CBD in dogs, there is anecdotal evidence from dog owners that it can treat pain, especially neuropathic pain, as well as help control seizures.
Dr. According to Klein, CBD is also used for its anti-inflammatory properties, heart-healthy properties, anti-nausea effects, appetite stimulation, anti-anxiety effects and possible anti-cancer effects, although conclusive data on these uses are lacking. .
The AKC Canine Health Foundation (CHF) is sponsoring a study at Colorado State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences to evaluate the use of CBD in dogs with treatment-resistant epilepsy. CHF hopes this will be the first study to provide scientific data on the use of CBD in dogs with this condition.
Possible side effects of CBD in dogs
Although there is no scientific data on the side effects of CBD consumption in dogs, side effects are possible based on the effects of CBD on humans. To minimize possible side effects, make sure you stick to the correct dosage.
-Dry mouth: Studies have shown that CBD can reduce saliva production. In dogs, this would manifest as increased thirst.
-Lowered blood pressure: High doses of CBD have been known to temporarily lower blood pressure. Although the drop is small, it can cause short-term dizziness.
-Drowsiness: Dog owners have used CBD to treat anxiety. The sedative effects of CBD can also cause mild drowsiness, especially at higher doses.
Risks of using CBD oil in dogs
The safety and risks of using CBD in dogs have not yet been studied. The US Food and Drug Administration has not approved CBD or provided a dosage chart. Therefore, we do not know what dose would be toxic. Any drug or supplement carries a risk of reaction. It is always advisable when introducing something new to your dog to start with small amounts and then monitor the effects closely. And always check with your vet first.
How does CBD work in dogs?
At this time, there has been no formal research on how CBD affects dogs. Scientists know that cannabinoids interact with endocannabinoid receptors in the central and peripheral nervous systems, which help maintain balance in the body and maintain a normal healthy state.
The CBD Wellness Trend
Why are we hearing so much about CBD oil now? Dr. Klein points to the legalization of marijuana in many places, which has fueled interest in the potential health benefits of marijuana-related products. “We’re likely to see continued interest in CBD and more research into its use and effectiveness in the coming years,” he says.
