CBD oil or cannabidiol is currently dominating the wellness industry, establishing itself as a billion-dollar brand.
People are flocking to buy CBD oil to manage many problems like depression, anxiety, chronic pain, nausea, and more. The research on CBD oil is promising, and the industry continues to grow.
Since CBD oil works so well for humans, pet owners are curious about hemp for dogs. Could dogs benefit from hemp just as much as people?
If you have a furry friend with medical issues, keep reading to see how CBD oil might help them
What is CBD Oil?
CBD oil is short for cannabidiol oil, which is a cannabinoid that comes from the cannabis plant. CBD oil is extracted from hemp, which means it lacks the compound THC, which is responsible for psychosomatic effects or the feeling known as “getting high” and is derived from marijuana. CBD oil cannot get you (or your dog) high.
There are over 100 cannabinoids found in cannabis. Your body accepts these cannabinoids through the endocannabinoid system in our bodies. Dogs also have this system, so this is mostly why there are claims that it works well for them.
What Are The Benefits of Hemp for Dogs?
Just as CBD oil can help manage an array of uncomfortable symptoms in people, it also has the same effect on dogs. Here are several ways CBD oil can help your dog find relief.
- Chronic Pain
CBD oil is a natural anti-inflammatory, which means it reduces swelling caused by joint problems like arthritis. CBD oil could help your dog manage their pain if they’re suffering from painful conditions like hip dysplasia or arthritis.
- Nausea
Dogs experience nausea for several reasons, and the only way you might know about it is if they have a sudden loss of appetite. Giving them CBD can increase their desire and return them to a healthy diet.
- Calms Anxiety
Some dogs are easily frightened, whether by fireworks or thunderstorms, or other reasons. When dogs are afraid, they often start barking, tail tucking, panting, or running away. CBD oil works to balance the body and create a calmer mood so your dog can rest easy when frightening situations occur.
- Gives Relief From Cancer Symptoms
CBS oil cannot cure cancer, but it can help control the severity of the symptoms associated with types of cancers. There also some research that suggests it stops the growth of cancer cells.
- Seizures
Controlling epilepsy is one place that CBD oil shines. Dogs can suffer from epilepsy and experience seizures like humans. If dogs are not responding well to their epilepsy medications, CBD oil could help.
- Heart Health
Want your dog to live a long and healthy life? Start taking care of its heart! Dogs are also prone to heart disease, but administering CBD oil might promote a healthier heart by protecting the blood vessels.
- Skin
Does your dog suffer from seasonal allergies and scratch constantly? Excessive scratting can lead to inflamed skin, which opens wounds for bacteria to enter, creating an infection. Locally applying CBD oil to itchy patches can give your dog some relief from their red and irritated skin.
Is it Legal?
Since it’s arrival on the wellness scene, many people have asked the question, “Is CBD oil legal?” The answer isn’t as straightforward as people wish!
At the federal level, CBD oil is illegal, but depending on the state you live in, it could be completely legal. Check with your state’s laws before buying anything.
The DEA recognizes that marijuana is a Schedule 1 drug, which means it’s controlled federally. However, CBD oil is derived from hemp, which is still part of the cannabis family, and this is where the gray areas enter.
This debate is still controversial, and there are many nuances, but as more research emerges, hopefully, there will be a consensus among political and medical professionals.
Places to Buy Hemp for Dogs
Because CBD oil is incredibly popular, many people are trying to sell fake CBD oil. In turn, this could make people very ill or even cause fatalities. So making sure your CBD oil is pure is critical.
Here are a few tips to make sure you’re giving your dog the real thing.
Read the label. The label should indicate that nothing but pure CBD oil is the only ingredient. You might see other words like full-spectrum, certified, or hemp-derived, and it will tell you the amount
Each CBD company should practice full transparency. This means that they should have a physical address, contact information, and if you call them, you should speak to a real person. They also won’t be shy about sharing information about where they get their product and the relationship they share with their farmers.
Testing is critical when it comes to CBD oil. If the company you’re buying from does not provide third-party results, find a more reputable company. Not only does it subject you to potential danger, but you could face legal issues because it may contain illegal amounts of THC.
How is the CBD oil extracted? Only safe methods like cold-pressing or using carbon dioxide are recommended. Anything other forms of extraction uses unsafe toxic chemicals.
How to Give Your Dog CBD Oil
If you’re considering giving your dog CBD oil, there are plenty of ways to do it, even for the pickiest pup!
One of the easiest (and safest) ways is using a tincture and provides the fastest results. This method uses an eyedropper to measure the exact amount you need for your pooch. If your dog doesn’t cooperate and allow you to drop the oil in its mouth, mix a few drops within their food.
Some dogs will devour anything, in which case you could give them a capsule. Sticking a capsule in their food or a treat is a great way to give your dog CBD oil. Another thing to remember is that capsules must go through the digestive tract and might take longer to work.
If your dog is super picky and notices every foreign smell and capsule, try giving them CBD infused treats like the ones from Innovet. These treats are flavored with tastes that dogs love, and it makes giving them CBD oil very convenient. One thing to watch for is making sure your dog doesn’t overheat due to calories and ingesting too much CBD oil.
Remember, veterinarians,9 are not legally allowed to administer a prescription or recommend CBD to pets. With all the anecdotal evidence and legalities, they are restricted from suggesting CBD oil to your dog. This has to do mainly with CBD oil still being classified as a Schedule 1 drug.
However, if you want to bring CBD into conversation with your vet, you may do so. They can answer your questions to the best of their ability.
Dosing
The best advice for dosing is to follow the directions on the package. Bigger dogs will need more than smaller dogs but always start with the lowest amount first. From there, you can keep an eye on your dog and adjust your dose as necessary.
Are There Any Side Effects of CBD Oil for Dogs?
CBD oil is generally considered safe for both humans and pets, and there are very few, and even mild side effects. But they do occur.
If you give your dog CBD oil watch out for:
Your dog is drinking out of their water bowl more than usual. CBD oil can cause a decrease in saliva production.
If your dog seems lightheaded, it might be because their blood pressure has dropped. Giving too much CBD oil could be the cause.
All dogs need naptime, but some dogs might experience extreme drowsiness
Nausea, vomiting, and excessive itching could manifest as well
If you think your dog took too much CBD oil, watch them until they seem reasonable, or call your vet if symptoms are severe. Do not give them any more CBD oil. Once the effects have worn off, if you still want to continue giving them CBD oil, start again with a smaller dose and what their reaction.
CBD for Dogs: Is It Right for Your Pup?
While there are many areas when dealing with hemp for dogs, the results seem promising. However, the best opinion you can get is from your veterinarian, who might be staying up-to-date with the latest research.
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