As CBD oil rises in popularity for people, it is also becoming increasingly popular for pets. CBD oil can help your dog in the same way it can potentially help humans to fall asleep, feel calm, relax, and reduce inflammation.
As the pandemic subsides, many of us will be going back to work and will have to leave our pets for the day, which can cause anxiety in our pets who are used to having us at home. CBD oil can also be used to help dogs with anxiety.
What are Signs of Anxiety in My Pet?
Some common signs of anxiety in dogs include:
- Escaping from the yard
- Digging
- Destroying furniture or other items
- Excessive licking or chewing
- More frequent urination
- Inability to settle down
- Panting when it’s not hot out
- Pacing or shivering
- Howling/barking when the owner is not home
It is crucial to treat your dog’s anxiety when it is mild before it can reach more critical levels causing them to harm themselves, destroy furniture, or run away.
What is CBD?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a chemical that is naturally found in cannabis and hemp. It is non-psychoactive, meaning that it will not cause your pet to get high. In many cases, CBD products are derived from hemp rather than marijuana.
How Does CBD Work on Dogs?
While there is no formal study on how CBD affects dogs, research indicates that CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid receptors in the central and peripheral nervous system, with some evidence pointing toward a calming effect brought on by CBD, which may help treat anxiety. It also has shown anti-inflammatory properties and can potentially produce pain-relieving effects that help to manage pain.
What are the Side Effects of CBD?
Although there is no scientific data on the side effects of CBD on dogs, there are potential side effects for humans, which include:
- Drop in blood pressure- A high dose of CBD can cause a drop in blood pressure and can cause light-headedness.
- Drowsiness- While it can be used to treat anxiety in dogs, the calming effect CBD has on the dog can also cause slight drowsiness, particularly in high doses.
- Dry mouth- CBD can cause a decrease in the production of saliva, which can cause dry mouth. This will present as an increase in thirst for dogs.
Be sure that you are following the proper dosage to help reduce or avoid these side effects. Your veterinarian can instruct you on the proper dosage for your dog. Since the safety of CBD has not been thoroughly researched for dogs, it is important to speak with your veterinarian first before starting any type of treatment or medication to minimize any risks.
What to Look for When Shopping for CBD Oil
If your veterinarian has recommended CBD oil to treat your dog’s anxiety, there are a few things you need to keep in mind when purchasing CBD oil. They are not all created equal, and you want to find a high-quality oil that will produce the best results.
- Seek out organic oil. – If the oil isn’t organic, be sure to check that it is free of pesticides, solvents, and fungicides.
- Check the amount of CBD. – The CBD oil manufacturer should provide a certificate that indicates the amount of CBD in the product. There are many CBD products on the market that contain very small amounts of CBD. Check the analysis to ensure there is little to no THC in the product.
- Don’t choose based on price alone. – Typically, the higher the purity and quality, the higher the price of CBD oil. Cheaper oils may contact toxic substances and additives that could be harmful to your pet.
- Liquid is best. – While you can buy CBD dog treats, the best way to administer CBD is through oil or tincture. The dosage can be adjusted more easily drop by drop.
Questions about CBD Oil for Dogs? Contact us Today!
Before purchasing CBD oil for your pet, be sure to consult with your veterinarian at Animal Medical Center of Streetsboro. Contact us today to learn more!
