Depending on which state you reside in, CBD oil can be legally available to help relieve the symptoms of a variety of human conditions from stress and anxiety to epilepsy.
It is no surprise that this herb has also attracted interest, in the veterinary science world, to see if similar effects can be achieved for our furry friends. In this article, we look at the possible top ten benefits of CBD for your dog.
What is CBD Oil
CBD or cannabis oil is fluid derived from the marijuana plant. There are a variety of ways to get the oil from the plant, although the most common is CO2 extraction. The marijuana plant contains eighty different cannabinoids, including CBD (cannabidiol, the medical component) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol, the psychoactive component).
It is CBD that is extracted from the flower to produce CBD oil. In limited clinical trials, oil was found to be the best medium, other than intravenous injections, for administering CBD and ensuring it has the best effect in canines.
Is CBD Oil Safe For Dogs?
The main problem is the lack of proper clinical trial back research into the veterinary applications for CBD oil. Government funding has been impossible to get in this area (as with human versions) because of cannabis is considered an illegal drug. There has been one study to date by Pharmacokinetics.
Although some private companies have offered to provide funding, the sheer time involved to conduct a meaningful, clinical trial and the cost means, that this herb is not getting the proper scientific attention it deserves and many claims are anecdotal (not backed by any clinical evidence). People who have used CBD, however, have reported, that it does work, but it is still essential to discuss any treatment with a qualified vet, before starting any treatment for your dog.
Top 10 Benefits of CBD Oil for Dogs:
1. Treatment of Anxiety
Anecdotal evidence has suggested that CBD oil has shown some positive effects in the treatment of stress and anxiety in both dogs and humans. It is not addictive and can be used as a good alternative to other prescribed drugs.
Stressed, aggressive dogs and those suffering from separation anxiety appear to be much calmer and happier when treated with CBD oil. Which is great if you need to be away from home, need to travel with your hound or want to reduce problems when going for walkies.
2. Pain Relief alternative to NSAIDS
CBD oil has been observed to be comparable to other more common pet cures for pain relief including NSAIDS (like Ibuprofen and Aspirin). People who have used the oil report that they have seen a reduction in pain, more mobility and that they “have got their dog back” (often from people who might have been considering putting their best friend down) after using CBD oil for treatment.
3. Relief from The Symptoms of Some Cancers
Although there is no evidence that CBD oil fights cancer, in either humans or canines, there has been a large number of people reporting that they have seen a considerable improvement in the symptoms (such as lethargy, loss of appetite, pain, etc) in some cases after CBD oil has been administrated.
As with humans, more research is needed and there is pressure on the government to conduct proper clinical trials. So hopefully CBD oil can get the recognition it deserves and both furry and non-furry patients can benefit from the relief it seems to offer.
4. Epilepsy treatment, reduction of seizures
There have been clinical trials in humans suggesting that CBD oil has a beneficial effect for people with epilepsy, with suffers taking the oil experiencing a reduction in seizures. The same appears to be the case, with our canine chums reducing, or eliminating terrifying seizures and letting the dog get on with a fun packed life.
5. Appetite Booster
Although this seems like a minor effect, this is one where little clinical evidence is needed. CBD oil does increase appetite in both humans and canines. This means that dogs who are suffering from side effects from other illnesses or treatments (such as being sick or off their food) can find relief. Check with the vet that any treatment the dog is taking to make sure that they do not interact with each other in a negative way.
6. Reduction of Inflammation
We already mentioned CBD oil’s similarity to NSAIDs for pain relief. Well, the good news is, that it seems that just like NSAIDs, it also reduces swelling and inflammation. This can help when recovering for injury or operation and unlike Ibuprofen is unlikely to cause nausea and stomach upsets.
7. Treatment of Osteoarthritis
This is actually the one clinically proven, scientifically studied and proven the benefit of CBD oil in canines. Research conducted by Pharmacokinetics found that for the smaller dogs they tested there was a positive benefit from CBT on dogs suffering from arthritis, with previously crippled hounds becoming more active and playful and regaining interest in life. A blessing for those with older dogs who want to enjoy their final years. Learn more here if you would like to learn more about the scientific research being conducted.
8. Your Dog won’t get High
The chemical in weed and hemp that makes you high is called THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and is a separate cannabinoid from CBT. Cannabis oil is extracted in way that means it, contains very little THC. Dr. Gary Richter, medical director of Montclair Veterinary Hospital in Oakland, California, confirms that cannabis oil has no psychoactive effect on dogs when dosed properly. He argues that depending on the product’s nature, if there’s very little THC, then the dog will not get high. Rest assured, Rover will not be seeing pink elephants!
9. It Might Help the Gut and IBS
Preliminary studies in animals indicate that CBD may prevent colitis (IBD) and go some way to restoring normal gut function for animals suffering from an inflamed bowel. CBD may also have antibiotic properties which help promote good gut biodiversity. It also has been reported by two-legged users that it might have a positive effect for human sufferers too.
10. It is perfectly legal – in Most States
One of the main reasons people are wary of using CBD Oil is its association with smoking weed which is illegal in many states. Actually, this alternative treatment is legal in many states of the USA (best to check that it is in the state you reside). According to Forbes, many people have claimed that provided there’s below 0.3% of THC in CBD, then the federal law regards is as hemp. This means you can own or distribute it.
Final Thought
CBD Oil is a woefully overlooked and underfunded product that scientifically and anecdotally has a wide range of highly beneficial properties for both us humans and our four-legged friends.
More research is needed and hopefully, the government will get on board and provide this soon, so we can be certain that it is safe and ensure it is widely available to relieve the symptoms for our poorly pooches.
If this is a topic you are interested in and you would like to receive regular updates on the progress of CBD Oil for canine use then please subscribe for more updates from Maryjane’s Post, an emerging cannabis blog.