CBD For Dogs And Pets
If you don’t already use CBD, you probably know someone who does, and now CBD is a top conversation for pet owners too.
While research on CBD is in its early stages, various research and a load of anecdotal stories find it incredibly helpful and somewhat indispensable for dogs and pets alike.
It may help with conditions such as anxiety, arthritis, joint pain, gut problems, cancer, and arthritis, skin issues, and many other conditions both for humans and pets when correctly given.
Giving Natural CBD to your pet may seem straightforward but it is not. This is the reason, we wanted to provide you with information about CBD so you can make an informed decision, however, we always recommend that you get the expert opinion from a vet.
Can You Give Your Pet CBD? The UK Law On Pet CBD
We would recommend you consult your vet before giving your pet CBD.
The UK VMD have put together an informative article as “Pet Specific” CBD products are not legally authorised in the UK. This means that if any CBD product is being retailed as a pet-specific, then it is being retailed illegally.
VMD views CBD as being useful therapeutically for pets; however, it should be well-controlled concerning products containing it. Presently, you are allowed to give your pet CBD only by a prescription from a vet. If one thinks of giving CBD to their pet, a consultation with a veterinarian is urged.
How Does CBD Work
Research on CBD is still in its infancy but what scientists know is that all mammals, humans, vertebrates and invertebrates, birds, fish and reptiles all have an endocannabinoid system.
Because the endocannabinoid system exists within pets too, it’s believed that Natural CBD oil impacts and benefits animals in much the same way that it impacts us.
You and Your Pet's Endocannabinoid System
Within the ECS (endocannabinoid system), there are two cannabinoid receptors: CB1 and CB2.
CB1 receptors are found in the central nervous system and affect functions such as memory and movements.
CB2 receptors are found in the peripheral nervous system, immune system, and gastrointestinal tract.
CBD does not directly activate the receptors; instead, it changes the receptor’s ability to bind with cannabinoids. In that manner, it helps regulate the endocannabinoid system by balancing and raising the natural levels of endocannabinoids.
The ECS is responsible for regulating many physiological and cognitive processes in both humans and our pets alike, including but not limited to:
- Appetite
- Balance and coordination
- Cognitive function
- Digestive function
- Inflammation and pain response
- Memory
- Mood
- Muscle movement
When there is a disruption or imbalance in the ECS, reduced function of these processes can occur.
This, in fact, is how CBD interacts with the ECS system to help balance the body and keep it in a healthy state in all mammals. You and your pet could both benefit from this addition to your lifestyle routine.
Q & A
What’s the Difference Between CBD for Pets vs. Humans?
Both pet CBD and human CBD are derived from the very same natural source of the hemp plant. Natural CBD oil used for pets isn’t any different from the CBD oil used for humans. Many times, pet CBD has an unnecessarily higher price tag compared to human CBD.
Serving recommendations will differ with regard to pets, but there is usually no difference in the manufacture of the oils. So the answer is no; there is no difference between pet CBD and human CBD.
Is CBD safe for use in dogs and pets?
According to research, Natural CBD for pets has a good safety tolerance, but again, there is one area of importance which is the interaction of medication when giving pets CBD.
In both humans and pets, CBD is metabolised by enzymes in the liver. These are the same enzymes that break down many medications such as painkillers, heart medications and antibiotics.
It is believed that CBD may interfere with these enzymes, which may mean that CBD alters the concentration of some medications. This may be an indication that medications may not work or absorb and increase the risk for potential side effects
Also, to avoid any medication interactions with CBD, always talk with your vet and gain their advice. They might say not to take the CBD or give a 2 -4-hour window between giving medication and CBD.
Side Effects of CBD on dogs and pets
Research proves that CBD is safe, even in high amounts, but like any supplement, there’s always a risk of reaction. Its always a good idea to check first with your veterinarian when giving your dog something new. The most common effects you may see are:
- Increased thirst. Research has shown that CBD can decrease the production of saliva.
- Drowsiness. The sedating effect of CBD can lead to slight drowsiness with higher doses.
- Loose stool or diarrhoea. Your pet might experience some gastrointestinal side effects but like with any supplement it may irritate your pet’s gut.
Is THC toxic to dogs and pets
Even though dogs can use THC, (Tetrahydrocannabinol) it’s often advised not to.
This is because it can be very easy to give them too much. THC exposure will affect their heart rate and body temperature. In severe cases, tremors, seizures, and coma may occur. The severity will depend upon the amount of THC involved along with factors including the size of your pet.
As a result, it is very dangerous to use THC if not monitored closely. Because of this, many vets often recommend that only CBD products containing zero THC should be administered to your pet. The types of CBD with zero THC include broad-spectrum and isolate CBD, both of which contain 0% THC.
How To Administer CBD To Dogs And Pets
In most pets, CBD stays in the system for about 6-8 hours. Peak concentration occurs at roughly 2 hours post-dosing. Consistency is crucial in making it effective. You may get immediate effects once you start off with CBD, but the long-term effects will only come with its use on a routine daily basis.
CBD Via The Mouth
The best route of administration in dogs and pets is directly into the mouth or on their gums. This is because it is the most effective route since Natural CBD is highly absorbed by the membrane in the mouth and the tongue.
On Their Food
Putting the CBD oil on food will take a bit longer to absorb and is not quite as effective as putting it right into the mouth. This is because the CBD must go through the digestive tract and its filtration processes. Having said that this may be the only way to give CBD to some pets.
Rub CBD Into Your Pet’s Ear
If your pet won’t take the CBD orally or on their food, try applying the CBD to your pet’s inner ear. This is the least bioavailable option, unfortunately. We know some pets just don’t like CBD in their mouth or food. Apply the oil to your finger and rub into the area where the fur stops growing.
We highly recommend speaking to your vet before administrating any CBD product with your pet.
How Quickly Will I See Results With CBD?
This is a difficult question to answer as there are many factors involved in finding the best dose of CBD for your pet which also depends on what condition your pet has.
In the case of anxiety problems, the CBD oil can begin to calm your dog in 30 to 60 minutes. In issues like joint pain and arthritis, it may take up to 2 to 4 weeks for its optimal effect.
Remember, Pet Dosage is not an exact science. You may have to go up or down on the dose until you find an ideal amount that works for your pet. This dose can also be different over time, or at times when your dog has received more exercise and may need it to help in situations if they become anxious.
Research on CBD in dogs, cats and all pets is still very new. Having said that the studies that have been conducted suggest that CBD may be useful in treating certain conditions in animals. More vets are starting to recommend CBD, and many pet owners advocate its use after seeing their pets benefit. We are excited to see more new evidence of the potential that CBD has to offer for a natural, healthy lifestyle in the years to come.
In the meantime, If you decide to try CBD for your dog or pet, talk to your vet first.
DISCLAIMER: Leaf Organics recommends purchasing any CBD products when prescribed or recommended by a qualified VMD Veterinary Surgeon. We understand customers give their animals CBD to help with many health concerns. We often get asked about giving pets CBD. We are not and do not pretend to be vets and we are not qualified to offer advice on treating animals with CBD, this article has been written on the basis of providing education to people when researching the use of CBD with their pets.