CBD oil for dogs
As with all pet health developments, there is so much information online about CBD oil for dogs that it can be difficult to know what is true and what is exaggerated. Ultimately, you have to do what’s best for your pup, and that means being sceptical. What should I know about CBD oil for dogs?
What is CBD oil?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is an ingredient found in cannabis and marijuana. According to Dr.Klein, it is important to note that CBD oil does not typically contain delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is the psychoactive compound in cannabis. In fact, most CBD products are made from hemp, not cannabis.
How does CBD affect dogs?
There are no official studies on the effects of CBD on dogs. Scientists know that cannabinoids work with endogenous cannabinoid receptors in the central and peripheral nervous system to maintain stability in the body and preserve traditional health conditions.
What canine health issues can CBD oil help with?
While there is no definitive scientific data on the use of CBD for canine problems, dog owners anecdotally report that CBD oil for dogs helps them manage pain, especially neuropathic pain, and even helps control seizures.
According to Dr. Klein, CBD may have anti-inflammatory, cardiac, anti-nausea, food-chain promoting, anti-anxiety, and anti-cancer properties, but conclusive data is lacking.
The AKC Canine Health Foundation (CHF) is sponsoring a study conducted by the University of Colorado College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences on the use of CBD in treatment-resistant dogs. The AKC hopes this study will be the first evidence-based study of CBD use in dogs with this disease.
Potential side effects of CBD on dogs
There is no scientific evidence of unintended effects of CBD use in dogs, but there is a possibility of unintended effects based primarily on human exposure to CBD. Proper dosing and administration of the drug should be followed to reduce adverse effects.
- Dry Mouth: Tests have shown that CBD can reduce saliva production. In dogs, this manifests as increased thirst.
- Decreased blood pressure: It has been shown that excessive CBD consumption can cause a transient drop in blood pressure. Although the drop is small, you may immediately feel lightheaded or dizzy.
- Lethargy: Dog owners use CBD to control anxiety; CBD’s sedative properties can cause mild drowsiness, especially when used in high doses.