From keeping an emergency hand-sanitizer in our cars to taking our daily antibiotics, we all want to be sure we’re doing the best job we can at taking care of ourselves.  The same rules apply to all four-legged furry friends that happen to live under your roof. One of the latest trends across the medical world is the use of cannabidiol, better known as CBD.  Once CBD became popular with people, it was only a matter of time before people wondered if the health benefits could be shared by man’s best friend. Though research is still in its adolescence, studies have shown CBD to improve anxiety, aggression, seizures and help some mental disorders.

CBD is a non-psychoactive chemical extracted from hemp or cannabis plants.  Despite being derived from cannabis, CBD doesn’t possess enough tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) to create the intoxicating effects notoriously associated with cannabis.  You’re about as likely to feel “high” from CBD as you are likely to feel drunk after eating a plate of Penna a la vodka. So no need to worry about your dog going on an impromptu adventure to White Castle at 4:00 in the morning.  What CBD can do however, is provide anti-inflammatory effects on your pet’s endocannabinoid system. These effects can help ailments like anxiety, arthritis and joint pain, loss of appetite, nausea, epileptic seizures and even digestive issues. 

What’s great about CBD is it’s available in an abundance of forms.  Typically, you’ll find them available in soft chews or an extracted oil that can be sprinkled on top or mixed into your pets food.  Some companies have ventured out to even create dog biscuits with CBD infused into the recipe. Popular brands include MediPets, HempMyPet and King Kanine.  They even have bacon flavored options in case your dog falls on the picker side! 

A small study at Colorado State University discovered minor cases of diarrhea as a possible side effect of the medicine.  Another potential impact is increased thirst. CBD can decrease the production of the body’s saliva, so it’s all the more important to make sure your dog is hydrated.  As with most cannabis related products, sedation is also a potential side effect. This absolutely varies on the amount ingested and shouldn’t be an issue with the recommended doses.

Since CBD is a relatively new introduction into the world of medicine, it has yet to be regulated.  This makes it more important to research beforehand to make sure you’re getting the highest quality product for your pet.  Make sure you buy an organically grown product that’s free of toxins. It’s also helpful to ensure your product has been independently tested and has a THC potency of less than 0.3%.  You should also be sure to keep your CBD locked away safely and don’t give your pet more than the recommended dosage.

As time goes on, our knowledge on CBD’s health benefits will only increase.  For now, it’s a tool that if used properly, could provide your pet with the medicine they need to truly live their best lives. 

Sources:

https://www.preventivevet.com/dogs/what-to-know-if-you-want-to-give-your-dog-cbd-cannabidiol

https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/cbd-oil-dogs/

https://www.caninejournal.com/benefits-of-cbd-oil-for-dogs/