Pet parents want only the best for their furry friend. And when it comes to providing relief from pain, anxiety, and other health issues, CBD may be a viable option.
CBD oil is made from extracts of cannabis plants and is known for its therapeutic properties. It has been shown to benefit humans, from fighting cancer to reducing seizures caused by epilepsy.
An increasing number of US pet owners are turning to this remedy as a treatment option for their dogs, cats, and other furry friends. But before you rush to buy CBD, here’s what you should know about using CBD for dogs.
The Benefits of CBD for Pets
Like people, pets can experience various health issues that CBD can help improve. Here are some of the canine and other pet conditions that CBD has been shown to help:
Pain Relief
The primary benefit of CBD is its analgesic properties. This means that it can effectively relieve pain, both chronic and acute. CBD is as effective as morphine in treating pain.
Anxiety Relief
CBD can also help relieve anxiety in pets. This is especially beneficial for dogs who experience separation anxiety or fear loud noises, such as fireworks.
Reduced Seizures
Some studies indicate that CBD may effectively reduce seizures for dogs with epilepsy.
Cancer Treatment
While the American Veterinary Medical Association notes that there isn’t enough evidence on the matter, some research indicates that CBD can help reduce tumor size and alleviate symptoms associated with cancer.
How to Administer CBD to Pets
There is no single “best way” to administer CBD for dogs. Instead, it depends on the condition being treated.
For instance, it can be administered orally or topically for pain relief. However, for anxiety relief, it must be administered orally or through a diffuser.
Always consult with your pet’s veterinarian before getting started with CBD treatments for your pet to ensure if it is the right option. It’s also important to understand that CBD for pets typically does not take effect immediately. Give it time to work before determining its effectiveness.
Also, always be sure to purchase your products from a reputable manufacturer, preferably specializing in CBD treatments for animals. Quality testing matters when it comes to CBD products. Because it is a relatively new treatment option, you should look for those that third-party testing organizations have vetted.
CBD Dosage for Pets
The dosage of CBD that your pet will need will vary depending on their weight and the condition being treated. Start with a low CBD dose and increase it gradually as needed. You should never give your pet more CBD than what has been prescribed by their veterinarian.
Pet owners should note that not all CBD products are created equal. The potency and quality of CBD products can vary significantly, so be sure to do your research before purchasing.
How to Get CBD for Pets
Now that you know all about CBD for pets, how can you get it for your furry friend? There are a few CBD-related things to check beforehand:
1. Check the Ingredients
Not all CBD products work the same way. Some CBD-infused products may contain other ingredients that could be harmful to your pet. Before purchasing, be sure to read the product label and only choose those made with all-natural ingredients.
2. Check the Origin
CBD is derived from hemp or marijuana. Products made with hemp are legal in all 50 states, while those containing CBD oil extracted from the leaves of the marijuana plant are not. Be sure to purchase your product from a company that sources its materials within your state’s legal guidelines.
3. Check the Price
Typically, CBD for pets is more expensive than CBD for humans. But, as the popularity of this remedy grows, the price is dropping. Be sure to research and find a product that fits your budget.
The best quality CBD products will cost slightly more than others, but it’s the cost of sourcing high-quality raw materials and getting their products tested for quality and safety by third-party labs.
4. Check the THC Levels
Knowing whether the CBD product you choose contains THC or not is essential. If your pet happens to ingest too much THC, it could result in intoxication similar to what dogs experience when they eat chocolate. Be sure to choose a product with low or no THC levels.
The serving size of CBD products is typically smaller for pets than it is for humans. Be sure to follow the CBD manufacturer’s instructions and start with a small dosage to see how your pet reacts. You can always increase the CBD dosage if needed.