The Benefits of CBD
The Benefits of CBD
The benefits of CBD for dogs are much the same as those for their humans.
CBD’s benefits for dogs are receiving the same attention as they do for their human masters. CBD can help in the treatment of physiological and psychological ailments, such as osteoarthritis and separation anxiety.
Stories are all over the internet about dog owners giving their pets CBD for treat pain, illness, and end-of-life care. For example, a 12-year-old dog was diagnosed with Cushing’s Disease. Her owners were faced with a difficult choice: go with the Western medical approach or try CBD as an alternative.
The traditional method meant treating the symptoms, not curing the disease. The side effects included nausea and vomiting, and the treatment wouldn’t prolong her life. Also, the treatment would be expensive and have little to show for it. Instead, the dog’s owners decided to try CD and other supplements, resulting in decreased symptoms, a better quality of life, and considerably less expense. As with our human family members, we will do our utmost for our canine members’ comfort and well-being. Basically, we’re willing to try almost anything for their care and comfort. Fortunately, early science is pointing us toward CBD.
A recent survey found dog owners support the use of cannabinoid-based supplements, in the form of treats and other products. Anecdotal evidence seems to support owners’ belief that CBD plays a significant role in relieving pain, inflammation, and anxiety. CBD for dogs comes in a variety of forms; the best is derived from hemp, which has less than 0.3% THC by volume. The carrier oil can often be cod liver oil.CBD oil for dogs often has added flavors to make it more palatable for our canine friends. The oil, which can be mixed with food, also comes in the form of treats, biscuits, and soft chews.
It’s important not to give dogs CBD with high concentrations of THC (marijuana’s psychoactive component) because of its toxic effect on dogs. The list of the potential benefits of giving your four-legged friend CBD is long:
Anti-inflammatory benefits of CBD for dogs
Several other studies confirm CBD’s advantages as an anti-inflammatory. When taken orally or applied topically, the studies seem to support claims for fighting inflammation caused by osteoarthritis. Some evidence suggests that CBD enhances the effects of opioids and NSAIDS, making it possible to reduce dosage levels of these medications.
Pain management
Canine pain has many causes. It can be acute, as in the case of injury or post-surgery or chronic/progressive, such as hip dysplasia and intervertebral disc disease. Invariably, pain management includes powerful pain medications like opioids. While effective, they have adverse side effects, including dependency (yes, dogs can develop addictions), liver damage, and risk of overdose. As explained above, CBD can improve the efficacy of pain relievers, allowing lower doses. Also, several studies have shown CBD to be an effective pain reliever. CBD’s effect on dosage levels means that there is less potential for liver and kidney damage as a result of NSAIDs usage. That has especially important implications for their long-term use.
CBD benefits for anxious dogs
Like their human counterparts, CBD may have benefits for canine anxiety. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, CBD may help dogs with anxiety. Whether in a stressful situation like the 4th of July fireworks or dogs with separation anxiety, CBD has plenty of potential for dealing with anxiety. In animal model studies, researchers found that CBD reduced anxiety-related symptoms and behaviors.
