Just as in humans, CBD oil has shown to be helpful to some dogs experiencing anxiety. This oil is a compound that is found in the cannabis plant, specifically industrial hemp. It is a natural remedy that has been found to be helpful for people and dogs in supporting overall good health. It is said to have a calming effect and can also be helpful in alleviating arthritis pain, which in itself may cause anxiety.
The science on CBD oil and its effects at present is rather sketchy, but no ill effects have been reported. Because this ancient remedy is new to us in modern times, there are not many regulations surrounding it. This means that you must be careful to purchase only the best quality CBD oil for yourself and for your dog.
Talk with your vet about the possibility of using this supplement to help your dog with anxiety. He or she may have good recommendations on brands that are best for your purposes.
Is CBD Oil Safe for Dogs?
Unlike pharmaceutical drugs that are often prescribed for anxiety treatment in people and pets, CBD oil is very safe for use in the long term. That's why many veterinarians are now recommending it to help with a wide variety of canine problems, including anxiety. Industrial hemp is related to marijuana but does not contain the high levels of tetrahydrocannabinoid (THC) found in marijuana. THC is the component of marijuana that produces a "high", and it is unsafe for dogs.
CBD is a different component of both hemp and cannabis plants. It is derived from the leaves and flowers of the plants and occasionally from the stems. CBD oil provides only therapeutic and medical benefits. It does not produce a high.
Is CBD Oil the Same As Hemp Oil?
Hemp oil is derived from Cannabis sativa plant species and does not contain THC or CBD. Hemp oil provides mostly nutritional benefits and may assist with pain caused by inflammation. It is not effective to help combat anxiety in dogs or people.
How Does CBD Oil Help Dogs with Anxiety?
Just like people, cats and dogs also have an inbuilt endocannabinoid system that facilitates the benefits provided by CBD oil. This natural neurological system accepts and welcomes CBD to allow relief from a wide variety of symptoms including:
Not only is it easy for your dog’s body to use the benefits offered by CBD oil, it's easy for you to give your dog this beneficial supplement because it is now widely available in dog treats, tablets and drops especially prepared for dogs.
This handy infographic show you how CBD can help your dog!
Source: CanineJournal.com
Is All CBD Oil Safe for Dogs?
There are no regulations in the production of CBD oil products for pets or people. For this reason, it pays to shop carefully when looking for these products. Look for these qualities as you make your choices.
- 1Investigate the processing method used on the product. As with most supplements, cold pressed extraction is best. This method of extracting the oil from the leaves, flowers and stems of the hemp plant is free of toxins. It costs a little bit more, but cheap processes involve the use of butane, hexane, propane and other poisonous chemicals.
- 2Buy only organic CBD oil products. Certified organic products are free of pesticides and other toxins.
- 3Look for products that have been independently tested. Transparent, honest companies will have their products tested by an outside lab for:
* Residual Solvent
* Heavy Metals
* Mycotoxin
* Microbes
* Pesticide
Look for a certificate of analysis (COA) on the product label. - 4* Residual Solvent
* Heavy Metals
* Mycotoxin
* Microbes
* Pesticide - 5Double check the THC level. A product made for pets specifically for therapeutic purposes should contain less than .3% THC. Higher levels can be toxic to dogs.
What’s the Right Dosage of CBD Oil For a Dog?
Generally speaking, small dogs can take 75 mg of CBD daily, and large dogs can take 300 mg or more daily. This is just a ballpark figure, though. The amount that is safe for your dog will vary based on many different factors.
You and your veterinarian will need to consider factors such as your dog’s age and level of activity as well as its size and weight. If your dog has other health conditions or is taking other medications, this may also affect the dosage of CBD that is safe for your dog.
It's always best to err on the side of too little than too much. As with all supplements, start with a very low dose and increase it gradually until the desired effect is attained.
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