The results are in for dogs and CBD oil is here to stay!
You’ve probably heard of CBD oil already since it’s practically everywhere now and in an infinite number of forms.
In fact, even Kim Kardashian, arguably the most famous woman on the planet loves the stuff (she hosted a CBD-themed baby shower!).
So, what’s all the hype about, you may be wondering – right?
Here at Alurell, we’re here to demystify the geek-speak and explain CBD to you once and for all.
Humans, dogs, and cats all have an Endocannabinoid System (ECS).
Our bodies produce our own cannabinoids for this system, but sometimes a little boost is all we need to achieve wonderful results in body and in mind. This is why CBD is so effective for treating such a wide range of ailments and promoting so many health benefits.
Perhaps the main role of the endocannabinoid system lies in controlling levels of inflammation in the body by regulating the immune response. An overactive immune system can often trigger allergies and even the development of auto-immune diseases. On the other hand, an underactive response can foster a favorable environment for the growth of cancer cells, as well as making the body vulnerable to infections. It is crucial, then, to maintain a healthy endocannabinoid system.
However…
There is one major difference in the distribution of the CB1 receptors in dogs compared to humans. Studies show that there are, in fact, a higher number of CB1 receptors in the brain structures of canines compared to humans – this means your dog is perhaps the best candidate for CBD.
Will CBD Products Make My Dog High?
Cannabis is a plant most people associate with the popular recreational drug marijuana, which explains the apprehension of many pet owners in buying CBD for their pets. However, the main psychoactive ingredient in cannabis is THC (tetrahydrocannabinol).
Most cannabis available for recreational use is intentionally bred to contain high levels of THC with only small concentrations of CBD.
CBD is another type of cannabinoid from the cannabis plant. As a non-psychoactive compound, it does not produce any kind of buzz, let alone anything close to any kind of high.
Plus, any medicinal properties from the cannabis plant actually come from CBD – which has shown promising and positive results in everything from alleviating anxiety, depression, and chronic stress, to reducing inflammation in both humans and animals.
You can rest assured that your beloved pet will not come anywhere close to a psychoactive high.
Additionally, dogs who are undergoing chemotherapy for various cancers often suffer many unwanted side effects. CBD oil can curb some of these side effects and make your pet more rejuvenated.
What scientific studies have been conducted regarding CBD for dogs?
There are some quite recent and reliable studies that have been conducted to lend credence to the fact that CBD oil is a very beneficial and holistic treatment for dogs with a multitude of ailments and conditions.
One recent study, entitled “A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of daily cannabidiol for the treatment of canine osteoarthritis pain” –has been published in the journal PAIN.
In this study, researchers from the Baylor College of Medicine determined whether various doses and formulations of CBD may help dogs suffering with osteoarthritis – and the results were promising.
Working in collaboration with a known CBD brand, they conducted this 4-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. It included 20 large dogs, all of whom had been diagnosed with osteoarthritis and were randomly assigned to receive either a placebo or one of three different CBD options. Before and after the regimen, each dog was evaluated by both veterinarians and their owners on factors related to their mobility and pain.
By the end of the four weeks, the group of dogs given the placebo showed no improvement. However, the group of dogs who took high doses of CBD saw significant improvement in both their mobility and quality of life. The results were so impressive that Matthew Halpert, a PhD. student from the Faculty with the Department of Pathology and Immunology at the university stated: “I openly admit that I was surprised at how quickly we saw such large results”.
More impressive studies can be found in numerous scientific journals, some of which are freely available to the public online.
What does this tell us?
These studies, along with anecdotal evidence provide us with the knowledge that not only is CBD safe, but it works. It offers many of the benefits associated with conventional or traditional forms of medicine without any of the negative side effects.
CBD Oil Benefits
Alleviate separation anxiety: If your pup exhibits symptoms like destructively chewing furniture, digging and scratching at doors and windows, or whining when you leave the house – it’s their way of saying he or she is distressed when you’re away. While you might think this is just a sweet sentiment, the emotional dysregulation this causes can make your pet very uncomfortable. Luckily, CBD promotes soothing feelings in your pet, making your departure much more manageable for them, and giving you peace of mind.
Reduce Aggression
Just like social anxiety in humans, dogs can become anxious or afraid when interacting with other dogs or people, which causes them to act out in aggressive ways. But with CBD oil, a walk in the park can be a walk in the park again – by encouraging a sense of calm in your dog.
Inhibit the Impact of Noise
Thunderstorms, 4th of July fireworks, or even loud parties – whatever the cause, an explosive environment can leave many dogs feeling frightened. But while you can’t control the outside environment, you can have some control over your pup’s internal environment by incorporating CBD oil into their daily regimen, to help your pet feel comfortable no matter the occasion.
Mobility Support
As our dogs age, they start to exhibit less interest in the activities they once enjoyed. Whether it was their daily walk or run around the park – your dog will eventually resign to their new favorite position: sitting down. While there’s no inherent issue in a dog taking the time to relax, this sedentary lifestyle can cause immobility – which in turn can lead to osteoarthritis. Due to CBD oil’s ability to address both pain and inflammation, it is effective in improving your aging dog’s mobility.
Lack of Appetite
The long-term use of CBD oil increases your Dog’s appetite and even helps with nausea: If mealtimes are a struggle for your pup, the National Cancer Institute reports that CBD increases appetite.
Pain Relief
Conventional pain relief includes the use of opioids, and although they work –they also come with a host of serious side effects including long-term liver damage and even dependence. With scientists considering CBD as a possible new class of drug in the treatment of chronic pain since your dog will certainly benefit from its pain-killing properties. This includes decreasing neuropathic and nerve-related pain, age-related pain, inflammatory pain, and the pain associated with surgery.
Keep Their Brain Healthy and Agile
Like any other organ, the brain needs some special care. To protect brain cells from toxicity, CBD has shown promising results. This is especially true for senior dogs who need protection from cell death caused by toxins and free radicals.
Things to Consider
If you’re interested in adding CBD to your dog’s daily regimen, but you’re worried about the interaction between CBD and your pet’s current medications – it is recommended that you discuss all supplements with your vet.
Whether over-the-counter meds or prescription meds, your vet will be able to alleviate your concerns and advise you on any potential interactions.
The best thing is, CBD oil is not harmful or toxic, meaning you can give it to your dog even if you’re on the fence about it.
Remember, there’s no harm in trying.
Check out these other great articles to give your dog their best life:
7 Pet Safety Tips for the 4th of July
Home Alone: How to Help Your Pooch Deal With Separation Anxiety
5 Signs of Stress in Dogs & How to Recognize Your Dog’s Stress