CBD oil for pets is often considered a solution for numerous symptoms and ailments, but there is still a lot of mystery surrounding this so-called “miracle” compound. From relieving anxiety to even being a possible cancer treatment, research suggests that the talk about CBD oil is not just hearsay.
But what are the benefits and risks of CBD oil for dogs?
In this article, we’ll break down myths about using CBD oil, the good and bad effects, and how to properly use it. Here is everything you need to know about CBD oil for dogs:
Breaking Down Myths of CBD Oil
There are a lot of myths about CBD oil that may deter people from trying it. CBD oil is a recent wellness trend for both humans and their furry friends, so it’s no surprise that people are still unclear about its credibility.
People often think CBD oil is synonymous with marijuana, but the cannabidiol that’s marketed toward the general public is usually not pulled from marijuana but from hemp.
Despite what some may believe about CBD oil, some of the most popular rumors surrounding it are not true:
- CBD Oil Does Not Contain THC
It’s important to know that CBD (which stands for cannabidiol) is not the same as THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), and though both THC and CBD are compounds found in cannabis and hemp, they serve different functions.
- CBD Oil Will Not Make You High
First thing’s first, CBD oil is not psychoactive or hallucinogenic. In other words: CBD oil will not make you high. High levels of THC in marijuana is what causes the “high” but hemp, on the other hand, contains very little.
For comparison, recreational marijuana contains up to 30% THC while products that use hemp can only legally have a THC level of 0.3%, stripping them of any psychoactive properties.
- CBD Oil is Legal
Because of its association with marijuana, people often assume that CBD is illegal. But it’s not – CBD oil is legal in all 50 states so it’s safe to buy, and safe to use.
Positive Effects of CBD Oil for Pets
CBD oil is safe to consume and has a lot of benefits when incorporated regularly into an animal’s diet, allowing it to help treat several common ailments.
The list of CBD oil benefits for dogs and cats is quite impressive, but how exactly can it help? Here are some of the most common uses of CBD oil for pets:
Reduce Anxiety
CBD oil is commonly used to calm human nerves, but many pet parents have noted that using CBD for dogs’ anxiety helps calms the symptoms for them, too. Some common symptoms of anxiety in dogs include:
- Persistent barking
- Chewing (furniture, shoes, rubbish, etc.)
- Urinating and defecating (usually inside the house or crate)
- Aggression
- Tremors
Relieve Pain and Reduce Inflammation
Along with its ability to ease anxiety, CBD oil can also help treat acute and chronic pain by interrupting pain signals in your dog’s brain. According to Dogs Naturally, CBD oil can help treat pain from these common ailments in dogs:
- Arthritis
- Hip dysplasia
- Cancer
- Sprains or strains
- Torn ligaments
- Surgery recovery
Help Alleviate Painful Symptoms of Cancer
CBD oil can even ease the painful symptoms of cancer treatments. Dogs may experience many unpleasant side effects of treatment if they have cancer or tumors; nausea and vomiting being two of the most common symptoms.
There is ongoing research about how CBD oil can help treat cancer in dogs, but some early studies have found that CBD can help slow the growth of tumors. Of course, always consult your vet before resorting to CBD oil to treat any serious illness.
Treat Seizures and Epilepsy
Cannabidiol is known to be a natural anticonvulsant and can help control seizures, tremors, tics, and spasms. Some research suggests CBD can help restore order to brain neurons, preventing rapid and uncontrolled firing of neurons which is what causes seizures.
How to Use CBD Oil
When it comes to introducing anything new into your pet’s diet, less is more. Start with a low dosage of CBD oil so you can monitor the effects and make sure your dog reacts to it positively.
So, what is the suggested CBD oil dosage for dogs? A general rule of thumb is 2-4 drops taken 2-4 times daily.
Veterinarian Dr. Robert J. Silver suggests this dosing strategy:
The range of dosing: 0.05mg per pound twice daily, to 0.25mg per pound twice daily
Tier 1 – Low End: 0.05mg per pound of bodyweight
Tier 2 – Middle: 0.125mg per pound of bodyweight
Tier 3 – High End: 0.25mg per pound of bodyweight
Pet Releaf can help you figure out the proper dosages according to your dog or cat’s weight. But of course, always be sure to consult your vet if you’re unsure.
Where to Buy CBD Oil for Pets
CBD oil for cats and dogs is easy to find due to the increase in popularity in recent years. While there are plenty of options on the market, below are some great brands that sell CBD oil for pets:
Hempure
Hempure offers a wide range of products for both humans and animals, with CBD drops and treats specifically for your furry friends.
Holistapet
Holistapet gives your pet plenty of options for consuming CBD, with drops, capsules, and differently flavored treats for both dogs and cats.
Pet Releaf
Pet Releaf oversees the production of the hemp used in their oils, bites, and capsules at their own joint-venture hemp farm.
Honest Paws
Like other brands, Honest Paws offers CBD in the form of treats, oils, and capsules. But this company also has CBD-infused coconut oil and peanut butter!
Cannanine
Although we know that low amounts of THC are relatively harmless, Cannanine products are promised to be 100% THC free.
While CBD oil might not be a miracle cure-all, it certainly is a fantastic natural compound known to help relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and treat epilepsy. Investing in CBD oil for dogs and cats could help with numerous ailments your pet may face.
CBD oil can help lessen the impact of painful symptoms for your furry friends, but it’s important to give your cat or dog the proper medical attention they deserve. Learn how you can get affordable insurance coverage crafted specifically for your pet with Prudent Pet.
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