In recent years there has been a surge in interest around the use of CBD oil to manage a range of different health concerns in dogs. Also known as cannabidiol, CBD, derived from the cannabis sativa plant, offers a natural, plant-based alternative therapy worth considering when traditional medications and treatments are not effective in easing symptoms.
Below we share 11 ways CBD can help to support your pooch’s wellbeing and quality of life.
1.REDUCES ANXIETY AND STRESS
Anxiety is a common ailment suffered by dogs. Thankfully, the advent of medicinal cannabis treatment for anxiety in humans has created the opportunity for the same remedy to be provided for our furry friends.
CBD oil is worth considering to reduce the expression of anxiety in your dog such as barking, whining, noise phobias, separation anxiety, pacing, and other signs of distress or discomfort.
There is little research directly on the effects of CBD oil for anxiety in pets. However, over the past few years, research in humans and other preclinical investigations have shown CBD oil may reduce feelings of anxiety and symptoms of PTSD. This is due to its interactions with receptors in the brain and central nervous system that modulate hormones and signals related to anxiety and fear responses.
2. TREATS OSTEOARTHRITIS AND JOINT PAIN
Although there is no cure for this progressive condition, the anti-inflammatory properties in CBD oil may be used to treat painful arthritic conditions in dogs.
A recent study evaluating different doses and formulation of CBD in dogs showed it could potentially have positive benefits for osteoarthritis. Across a 4-week clinical trial, 20 large dogs took part in a randomised placebo-controlled study.
The trial measured signs and factors associated with pain and mobility. The placebo and low CBD showed no significant changes. Yet those dogs taking liposomal CBD or the higher dose of CBD exhibited significant improvement both to their mobility and quality of life. Researchers concluded the CBD treatment was not only being symptomatic but also addressing underlying inflammation at the root of the Osteoarthritis.
3. DECREASES EPILEPTIC SEIZURES
Seizures are one of the most frequently reported neurological conditions in dogs. Epileptic seizures are brought on by a temporary disturbance of normal brain function and are typically characterised by convulsions and fits.
A 12 week trial was conducted recently which observed dogs taking CBD oil experiencing a 33% reduction in seizures.
4. PROVIDES RELIEF FROM ACHES AND PAINS
Besides helping with pain caused by inflammation, there is evidence to suggest that CBD oil can be used to alleviate general aches and pains. Unlike some traditional pain medicine for dogs, CBD has no life-threatening side effects.
5. PACIFIES CHRONIC SCRATCHING
Dogs are playful animals by nature and, as a result, often suffer from allergies, rashes, and dry skin from all the scratching and rolling around. Chronic scratching can lead to microdermabrasion and deterioration of your fur baby’s skin barrier.
CBD oil has antioxidant properties that can be utilised as a remedy for these skin issues. CBD oil helps reduce both skin inflammation and stress, which can help prevent your dog from scratching and unintentionally causing greater trauma to sensitive areas.
6. MAY HELP NAUSEA, ANOREXIA & APPETITE ISSUES
CBD oil has been known to benefit dogs suffering from nausea. If your dog has a chronic health condition, heavy-duty medications may come with nausea as a side effect. Nausea has been known to also snowball into more detrimental health problems such as anorexia.
CBD can stimulate the appetite by increasing sensitivity to the smell and taste of food in dogs, making eating a more rewarding experience.
7. BOOSTS HEART HEALTH
There are several heart health benefits that can be achieved from using CBD for dogs, but most notably, CBD can improve cardiac function in dogs with arrhythmia.
Diminishing the presence of arrhythmia subsequently lowers the frequency of cardiac events and improves blood flow to major organs in canines.
8. CAN BE TAKEN TO REDUCE ALLERGIES
Dogs are highly susceptible to allergic reactions. Anything in their environments from foods, plants, and danders to medications, insects, and grass can trigger reactions.
CBD oil not only helps ease pain and irritation caused by the allergy – it also boosts your dog’s immune system, which reduces the allergy symptoms caused by your dog’s body trying to defend itself from the outside world.
9. MAY ALLEVIATE CANCER PAIN
Although not enough research has been conducted to determine whether or not CBD can be used as an effective treatment for cancer itself, it has been frequently utilised as a means to treat the symptoms associated with the disease and common treatments.
CBD can be a good secondary treatment for the pain or discomfort caused by cancer or for a dog undergoing painful chemotherapy, radiotherapy or other treatments.
10. HELPS WITH SLEEP
If your dog is having trouble relaxing or falling asleep, a small dose of CBD oil is an effective way to help them rest.
Whether their restlessness is due to illness, pain, or anxiety, CBD regulates serotonin, relaxes the body, and encourages overall immune health, which may help your pup sleep through the night.
11. DOGS TOLERATE CBD OIL WELL
Lastly, and importantly, you will be pleased to know CBD is considered a low-risk medication
Initial research into the safety of CBD oil in cats and dogs has shown that dogs can tolerate CBD oil in relatively high doses. While some research shows CBD might affect liver enzyme status, other data suggest changes aren’t clinically significant. Trials of dogs taking CBD oil have identified diarrhea as a common side effect but this downside can easily be remedied by adjusting the dosage. It is generally concluded that side effects from CBD are within acceptable ranges.
Want to try CBD oil as a treatment for your dog?
CBD oil offers an exciting, alternative therapy to help treat a wide range of health conditions in your dog, and to help them feel their best. As with any treatment, though, it’s essential to speak to a veterinarian about using CBD oil. Purchasing uncertified CBD oil on the black market or online is dangerous and can put your dog’s health at risk.
If you are considering CBD oil for your dog, CBD Vets Australia can talk to you about your treatment options and connect you with a local prescribing vet.
You can get in touch here or have a chat with us in person at the upcoming Sydney Dog Lovers Festival. Pop by stand 728 and say hello!