Are CBD Dog Treats Healthy for your Pet?
Tuesday, January 25, 2022
By Sean Zyer
CBD, while still technically considered a schedule 1 substance by the FDA, has been slowly approved at the state level, is now legal in 47 states for use. It’s medicinal properties have led many to seek it out in various forms as a way to relieve pain and even help with cancer. Studies have been conducted on this substance to see if it offers the same benefits for pets as it does for humans. Turns out, it does.
It may sound scary hearing CBD and your pets in the same sentence. But many pet owners swear by the use of CBD oil or CBD dog treats that has helped hundreds of pets live a pain free life or avoid complications from diseases. It’s not a cure all or miracle drug, but it can help your dog live a happier and healthier life when given in moderation.
What Is CBD?
CBD stands for cannabidiol, which is a compound found in cannabis and hemp. The first and most important thing to note is that CBD contains less than 0.3% (tetrahydrocannabinol), commonly known as THC, which is another compound in cannabis that results in a high. So, to answer the quick questions: CBD will not make you high, though it offers relief and other positive effects.
How Does It Affect My Dog?
There are many peer-reviewed formal studies on use of CBD with pets. CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid receptors located in the central and peripheral nervous systems. These are the systems that help us maintain balance and maintain the status quo healthy state. Many pet owners have reported positive effects on their pets after using CBD.
What Does CBD Dog Treats Help?
While no formal data exists, many pet owners have used CBD to treat discomfort, neuropathic issues, and stress in their pets. CBD also has powerful anti inflammatory properties, benefits for the cardiac system, stimulates appetite, helps with nausea, calms or relaxes, and may even have immune supporting benefits currently being explored. Many older dogs with joint discomfort can benefit from CBD.
Effects and Risks?
Like anything, there are some side effects associated with CBD. It can affect the production of saliva, resulting in some dry mouth. It also may cause drowsiness and lower blood pressure. The full scope of safety risks for CBD in dogs has not been explored. To accommodate this, doses are kept low and you need to monitor for any reaction the same way you would for yourself taking a new medication. And be sure to talk to your vet who cannot legally prescribe your dog CBD but can offer advice on the best options.
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