For people suffering from seizures, pain, anxiety, and other ailments, medical marijuana may be an option in certain states.
Both pet parents and vets are naturally curious if CBD oil for dogs UK in the form of products like dog treats can offer the same benefits.
This article will cover everything you need to know regarding CBD for dogs.
THC Vs. CBD For Dogs
CBD is one of more than 80 chemical compounds known as “cannabinoids”, which are derived from cannabis (marijuana). CBD is not psychoactive, unlike tetrahydrocannabinol THC (the most well-known cannabinoid).
Dogs should not be given marijuana straight or products containing tetrahydrocannabinol, the main psychoactive component of marijuana. The research is not sufficient to support the use of marijuana.
When used with other therapies, CBD-based products may be able to improve the quality of your dog’s life.
CBD For Dogs: Why?
Many people mention CBD as a treatment for many conditions such as arthritis, pain management, anxiety, and seizures. Although CBD is not well-researched for treating these conditions, there is varying scientific evidence.
Arthritis
It is easy to see why CBD could be beneficial for certain inflammatory conditions.
Osteoarthritis is a common condition in dogs.
One in four dogs will develop arthritis during their lifetime. As many as 60% of dogs have some form of disease.
CBD has been shown to provide significant pain relief for dogs suffering from arthritis when taken twice daily in the appropriate dosages.
Pain
The anti-inflammatory benefits seen in arthritis dogs could theoretically also be seen in dogs suffering from other types of inflammatory pain such as back pain from intervertebral disk disease (IVDD).
Combinations of CBD and THC are more effective for pain relief than either one alone. Dogs should not receive THC as they have not been subject to such studies.
Seizures
CBD is most commonly used in seizures. However, there are very few studies on pets. Seizures can occur in dogs due to a variety of conditions.
CBD may help reduce seizures in dogs with idiopathic epilepsy. There is evidence to support this claim. These benefits can only be seen in dogs who are also receiving traditional anti-seizure medication.
Cancer
As with seizures, “cancer” can be used to refer to a wide range of diseases and conditions, each with its own set of treatments.
CBD has been tested in humans for its potential use in treating cancer patients. It can be used to treat tumors directly as well as secondary symptoms such as chemotherapy and side effects. There has not been much research on CBD’s use in dogs with cancer.
This suggests that CBD treatment may be beneficial for dogs undergoing chemotherapy.
Anxiety
The biggest myth about CBD and anxiety management is that it is effective in managing dogs’ anxiety. It is possible that CBD could reduce inflammation and pain, which in turn could help to alleviate anxiety.
CBD isn’t psychoactive so it is unlikely that CBD can treat anxiety in dogs the same way Prozac or other medications. As with all conditions, CBD can be used to treat anxiety in dogs. However, this requires more research.
What Amount Of CBD Can You Give Dogs?
CBD oil can be applied topically to dogs. However, it is best to give the right dosage. CBD is used in CBD treatment for seizures and arthritis dogs. Most studies use a dose of 2-8 mg/kg. However, most papers tend to go lower (roughly 1-2 mg/pound body weight), twice daily.
The CBD dosage was found to be safe and effective in treating the two conditions (arthritis, and seizures). Further research is required to determine the appropriate dosages of CBD for treating other conditions.
Epidiolex is the only FDA-approved CBD product. However, a veterinarian could theoretically prescribe it for epilepsy in dogs. This would likely prove prohibitive.