While you’re still more likely to get a prescription for pills or surgery from a veterinarian, you may have likely heard the buzz about CBD for dogs.
New scientific research shows that CBD from cannabis offers a wide variety of health support and benefits both for humans — and their furry best friends, too. This powerful chemical compound may be effective as an alternative to traditional treatments for pain management, insomnia, anxiety, and other canine concerns.
Understanding how CBD can be helpful will give you the guidance needed to try natural methods for your pup. With confidence, you can create a treatment plan that may provide the relief your dog deserves.
What is CBD?
CBD, which is short for cannabidiol, is a chemical that occurs naturally in the cannabis plant. It is one of many cannabinoids that are in the cannabis plant, and these compounds react in all mammals through a bodily system called the endocannabinoid system.
Discovered just 30 years ago, this system has the job of supporting the endocrine system in mammals. The endocrine system is responsible for the operation of all kinds of bodily functions, such as hormone production and regulation, pain control, sleep, metabolism, and more.
When stressed by disease, trauma, or other concerns, the endocannabinoid system benefits from added supplementation from the plant-based version of the body’s cannabinoids. That’s where CBD comes in. It does not cause a psychotropic “high” like other chemicals in cannabis.
How Do You Give a Dog CBD?
There are a few ways to administer dogs CBD, although the most common is using CBD oil tincture. This product is made after the cannabis is harvested and delivered to laboratories. Scientists then use high pressure, chemicals, or infusion methods to distill out the CBD chemical.
The CBD is then measured and added in serving sizes to a product that can be ingested or applied topically to the skin. The CBD oil can be added to food or given directly into the mouth with a dropper.
As the pet owner, make sure that the bottle that’s used for your dog is separate from the one you may enjoy for yourself or other human family members.
Monitor Closely to Gauge Results
Since your pet obviously can’t tell you whether it needs more or less CBD, you’ll want to monitor their reaction closely. Start with a small amount. For small dogs under 10 pounds, start with just a couple of drops. For larger dogs, use a half-dropper of oil once a day.
If your pet seems to be suffering in the evening, save the dose for the evenings. Or, it may be best to give a serving in the morning and another before bedtime. Be consistent for a week, documenting your dog’s reaction and symptoms before changing the amount you provide.
It is possible to give your pet too much. Be sure to check the potency of the product you choose and be careful with serving sizes. By closely monitoring your dog, you’ll know if CBD is helping your furry friend feel better soon.
