Have you ever thought of using CBD oil for your dog? CBD oil (cannabidiol) is all the rage these days and – as long as it is derived from hemp and not from marijuana – is now legal in all 50 states in the US. Thousands of people are starting to realize just how potent and versatile this remedy can be.
The amazing thing about CBD oil is that it’s being said to be great for dogs, too. There are several health benefits to be gained by giving your dogs a taste of this “miracle remedy”. But before we go into the benefits, the American Kennel Club has this to say about CBD oil and dogs:
While there’s no definitive scientific data on using CBD to treat dogs, there’s anecdotal evidence from dog owners suggesting it can treat pain, especially neuropathic pain, as well as helping to control seizures.
CBD is also used because of its anti-inflammatory properties, cardiac benefits, anti-nausea effects, appetite stimulation, anti-anxiety impact, and for possible anti-cancer benefits, although there’s no conclusive data on this use.
The AKC Canine Health Foundation (CHF) is sponsoring a study, through the Colorado State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, that will evaluate the use of CBD in treatment-resistant epileptic dogs. The CHF hopes that this will be the first study to gain scientific data on the use of CBD in dogs with this condition.
This tells us that the benefits of using CBD oil in dogs has not been proven scientifically, but there are studies underway to test the effects. Therefore, the claims I am about to make are based on dog owners’ personal accounts rather than facts or research.
Health Benefits of CBD Oil in Dogs
Now let’s see how this fantastic oil has been said to work wonders for your dog’s well-being.
It’s Anti-inflammatory – CBD oil can reduce inflammation in your pet. If your dog has severe inflammation, he may feel lethargic and be in pain. The CBD oil will reduce the inflammation and restore your dog to good health.
Helps Reduce Pain – Older dogs that have arthritis, joint problems, sprained ligaments, and other painful conditions will find pain relief when they consume CBD oil.
May Help Prevent Cancer – Unfortunately, cancer can afflict dogs, too. There’s nothing worse than seeing this nasty disease taking a toll on your best friend’s health. CBD oil may mitigate the problem and prevent cancer cells from ravaging your dog’s system.
Reduces Aanxiety – You’ll notice that a lot of the CBD oil health benefits that apply to humans can also be applied to dogs. Just like how we feel calmer and more relaxed when we consume this oil, dogs feel the same way, too. Sometimes loud sounds like thunder, fireworks, and other triggers may make your dog panicky and anxious. CBD oil will help to calm them down. It will help prevent anxiety from affecting them adversely.
Curbs Nausea and Prevents Seizures – If your dog keeps throwing up often, CBD oil may remedy the problem by preventing nausea. Some dogs are also prone to seizures. Cannabidiol has been highly effective for treating seizures. There are many videos online showing how dogs that used to be plagued with seizures are now perfectly healthy after being on a regular diet supplemented with CBD oil.
Other Benefits – Besides the major health benefits above, CBD oil also ensures that your dog’s skin and coat will be healthy. If your dog has a poor appetite and is constantly tired and listless, CBD oil will not only increase your dog’s appetite, but can also boost his/her energy levels. Next thing you know, your dog will a frisky and furry bouncing bundle of joy.
Side Effects
Some possible side effects include lowering of blood pressure (watch for dizziness, light-headedness), dry mouth (watch for an increase in thirst), and drowsiness (caused by a too-large dosage). Since proper dosages have not yet been determined, it is advised that you start with a small dosage and monitor the results.
Ideally, you should give your dog CBD treats when it’s in good health. Prevention is always better than cure. Regular CBD treats should help your dog build up its immunity against these harmful diseases.
Administering the CBD Oil
The two most common ways to administer CBD oil to your dogs will be to either mix it in your dog’s food, or to dilute the CBD oil in their drinking water. The latter method is not as effective because the water may spill or your dog may not drink up all the water.
Another way to get cannabidiol in their diet will be to feed them dog treats that have been infused with CBD oil. Of course, you’ll need to purchase these special treats from a reputable store.
What to Look For When Purchasing CBD Products
Do note that when purchasing these treats, ALWAYS make sure that the CBD is sourced from organically grown hemp and NOT marijuana. It should be produced from the whole plant instead of only deriving the oil from the seeds.
Make sure the CBD is third-party verified and extracted naturally with CO2. Avoid products that use ethanol or other methods to produce the oil.
CBD oil is a natural, holistic remedy and can benefit your dog greatly. Check with your vet first, and then give it a try and see how it improves your dog’s health. It has to be seen to be believed.
