Do you have a dog at your place that suffers from anxiety, seizures, or chronic pain? If so is the case, you may be interested in using dog CBD to help treat your pet’s condition. Cannabidiol, or CBD, is a natural element found in the cannabis plant. It is effective in treating various medical conditions in humans and dogs alike.
This article will discuss the health problems treated with CBD oil in dogs.
What Are CBD and CBD-Related Products?
CBD is found in the cannabis plant. Not all cannabinoids are the same. It’s one of over 100 known compounds and has a different effect depending on the receptors it binds with in your body.
CBD does not give that “high“ feeling associated with recreational marijuana use. It does not contain THC or tetrahydrocannabinol, the psychoactive compound in cannabis.
CBD products can be found in different forms, including oils, capsules, edibles, and topical creams. They can be purchased from online retailers or dispensaries in states where marijuana is legal. The FDA does not yet regulate CBD-infused products, so it is essential to do your research before purchasing any product.
CBD versus Other Medications for Dogs
There are a variety of drugs that are available to treat the conditions that CBD can help with. These include traditional medications, such as NSAIDs, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and opioids.
NSAIDs are typically used to treat pain and inflammation. They work by reducing the production of prostaglandins, chemicals which cause pain and inflammation. NSAIDs are effective as pain treatment, but they can also cause side effects, such as gastrointestinal bleeding and kidney damage.
Opioids are another type of medication that is commonly used to treat pain. They work by binding to the body’s opioid receptors and reducing pain perception. Opioids are also a type of medication effective at treating pain, but they can also be addictive and cause side effects, such as drowsiness, constipation, and respiratory depression.
CBD is an alternative to these traditional medications. It effectively treats pain and inflammation without the risk of severe side effects.
How Does CBD Work?
The endocannabinoid system has two types of receptors, CB1 and CB2. The first one is located in the brain and spinal cord, while the second is scattered throughout the body.The effects of THC occur thanks to the interaction of cannabinoid agonists with the receptors in our brain CB2 receptors are found in the dogs’ immune system and peripheral nervous system.
CBD binds to both CB1 and CB2 receptors but has a stronger affinity for CB2 receptors. This is why CBD does not cause the same psychoactive effects as THC. This system is involved in various physiological processes, including pain perception, inflammation, and anxiety.
When CBD binds to the cannabinoid receptors, it helps to regulate these processes. It is also revealed to treat medical conditions, such as seizures.
Common Issues in Dogs Treated by CBD
Here are some of the health problems dogs commonly face that can be treated by CBD effectively.
1. Seizures in Dogs
Many different conditions can cause pain and inflammation in dogs. These include arthritis, hip dysplasia, cancer, and more. CBD oil is an effective way to help reduce the pain and inflammation associated with these conditions.
The anti-inflammatory effect seen in arthritic dogs may also be found in dogs with other types of inflammatory pain, especially back pain caused by intervertebral disc disease (IVDD).
Preliminary research suggests that combination therapies containing CBD and THC are more effective than single preparations. The reason we would NOT recommend giving THC to your dog is because it is toxic.
2. Anxiety in Dogs
Anxiety in dogs can be due to different things related to their physical health or environmental condition. Some causes include separation anxiety, fear of loud noises, and more. CBD oil helps reduce the stress associated with these conditions.
A study published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science found that CBD oil could significantly reduce the anxiety levels of dogs who were undergoing separation anxiety training.
The oil was also shown to reduce fear and improve socialization in dogs with social anxiety disorder.
3. Seizures in Dogs
Seizures in dogs can be caused by various things, including genetic disorders, brain tumors, and more. CBD oil is one of the great ways to help reduce the seizures associated with these conditions.
CBD oil has also been shown to treat seizures in dogs effectively. A study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association found that CBD oil could significantly reduce the frequency of attacks in a group of dogs with epilepsy.
4. Arthritis in Dogs
There are many different causes of arthritis in dogs. Some of the most common causes include degenerative joint disease, hip dysplasia, and rheumatoid arthritis.
CBD oil has also been shown to be effective in treating pain due to arthritis in dogs
5. Cancer
Cancer is one of the leading causes of death in dogs. Unfortunately, there is no cure for cancer. However, CBD oil is effective in reducing the symptoms associated with cancer. Lymphoma and mast cell tumors are common types of cancer in dogs.
CBD oil can help to reduce the health issues associated with cancer. The compound has been investigated in people for possible usage in cancer patients, both as a treatment for the tumor(s) themselves and to treat the secondary effects of cancer and chemotherapy. There have been several studies of CBD for dogs with cancer so far.
CBD has been shown to have anti-nausea effects in people undergoing chemotherapy, suggesting that dogs receiving chemotherapy might benefit from CBD treatment.
How to Use CBD in Dogs?
Now that you know all of the common problems in dogs that CBD can treat, you may be wondering how to use it.
CBD oil can usually be taken orally by placing a few drops in your mouth or mixed into food. The correct dose will vary depending on the size and weight of your dog and the severity of the health condition being treated.
Conclusion
CBD oil is a hopeful treatment option for various medical conditions in dogs. If you consider using dog CBD oil to treat your dog’s condition, consult with your veterinarian first. Vets will be able to provide you with information about the appropriate dose and give you any other instructions.
Tech expert fresh from the Australian Coast. Been in the tech industry more than 9 years, as part of a Business Growth Group. His out of office days are 100% for freestyle surfing and waves chasing.