As human interest in the health benefits of CBD products grows, so does interest in the potential benefits to our fur babies. This week we’re taking a dive into the world of CBD products for dogs but as always, we want to stress that we are not veterinarians and each family should seek the advice of a trained medical expert before trying any of the products mentioned below. Additionally, there is no definitive scientific data about the efficacy of CBD in treating canine health concerns, but there is plenty of anecdotal evidence from dog owners around the world.
How does CBD affect dogs and what can it treat?
CBD is the shorthand name for cannabidiol, a compound found in cannabis and hemp. Notably, it usually doesn’t contain THC, the psychoactive compound in marijuana. Dr. Klein, the AKC’s Chief Veterinary Officer, says that usually CBD comes from hemp, rather than marijuana.
Dog owners, and some doctors, suggest that CBD can help with a range of health concerns including nausea, appetite, stress and anxiety, seizures, cancer, and cardiovascular problems. Again, while there is no scientific data to back these claims, many dog owners swear by CBD and say that it has been transformative for their fur balls. The Canine Health Foundation recently launched a study to test the efficacy of CBD in the treatment of canine epilepsy, so we’ll standby for additional scientific data to support (or refute) these claims.
What CBD products are available for dogs?
The most commonly used CBD product for dogs is CBD oil which can be administered by putting a small amount of oil just inside their gums. It can also be added to treats/food for finicky pets. There are also several varieties of chews that contain varying amounts of CBD but we highly recommend reading the packaging thoroughly before purchasing these.
What risks does CBD pose to dogs?
Because CBD as a health supplement is a relatively new phenomenon, there is no official information about the risks and hazards associated with its use. The FDA doesn’t regulate CBD and as a result, there is no official dosing information available either. That being said, as with any supplement or medication, it’s important to administer the correct amount recommended on the packaging because too much is far worse than too little. Additionally, in consultation with your vet, we recommend starting small and monitoring Fido’s reaction before you progress to larger doses.
We always recommend during thorough research and consulting your veterinarian before giving your pet medications or supplements – especially those that haven’t been rigorously studied. The American Kennel Club is a great place to begin your CBD research.
Do you give our pups CBD oil? We would love to hear about your experiences in the comments below!
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