The demand for CBD (cannabidiol) products for humans and pets has exploded in recent times. It is fast outpacing the necessary research for identifying and clarifying the strengths and weaknesses of CBD, especially for pets. Despite the number of papers published on the way humans, as well as about 24 animal species, responded to cannabinoids, many people are still not sure about CBD.
There is evidence that CBD treats osteoarthritis and epilepsy, but there is no scientific evidence that it can treat anxiety. However, people have not stopped buying cannabidiol products for their pets, based on recommendations from friends, coworkers, and social media. In this article, we will discuss certain important facts that pet owners should know about CBD for pets.
Significant Updates in CBD Research and Regulation
Although the Farm Bill was passed in 2018, making hemp farming legal, there is no definitive regulatory structure for the actual cannabidiol products. The FDA is still in the discovery phase and is yet to come up with regulatory standards for the industry. But the cannabis industry is also doing some form of internal regulation by using a certificate of analysis to verify product content and purity. You can visit https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hemp_Farming_Act_of_2018 to read about how hemp farming was legalized.
It is important to know that there is limited research on veterinary species. Scientists are only certain about using cannabidiol for osteoarthritis, but we hope that more studies will investigate other medical conditions. Also, most of these studies suggest that administering CBD, whether as an oil tincture, soft chew, emulsion, or isolate, at fairly high doses can remediate osteoarthritis.
Other studies report the mixture of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol to ascertain the pharmacokinetics and safety of the compounds in pets, particularly canines. The studies discovered that gradually introducing low doses of THC, coupled with cannabidiol in higher doses, is safe for pets.
Researchers are yet to document the extra benefits of adding higher doses of THC regarding neurological or anxiety problems, mobility, inflammation, and pain. However, there is anecdotal information on the treatment of cancer and remediation of the side effects of chemotherapy.
Do Dogs React Differently from Humans After Consuming CBD Products?
Dogs and humans both possess endocannabinoid systems (ECS) that are responsible for controlling the activities of the body. As a result, they respond similarly when cannabinoids bind to the receptors in the ECS. Cannabidiol products for pets can take care of the following conditions:
- Tumor growth
- Inflammation
- Pain
- Neurological conditions such as epilepsy and anxiety
- Mobility disorders
- Dermatological conditions
Obviously, when your pet experiences seizures and cancer, it indicates that the ECS cannot control that pathology. Therefore, adding cannabidiol, as well as other phytocannabinoids, can stimulate the mechanism and improve the quality of your pet’s life. However, it may not be possible to get the exact result in another pet. You can check out Holistapet to find out the potential benefits of cannabidiol for pets.
Some studies suggest that isolate CBD is less potent than full spectrum in reducing cancer cells. While there are many theories on which type of cannabidiol is more effective, we must understand that each works for different purposes. Also, a product that can help dogs may be ineffective for horses or cats, or it may work, but at a different dosage. More research should be done to find out how to use cannabidiol to treat specific health conditions in each veterinary species.
Until researchers conduct and publish their findings, the ideal treatment method would be a shotgun procedure. You can use broad spectrum or full spectrum cannabis extracts, starting with a very low dose. After 1 or 2 weeks, you can increase the dosage so your pet can enjoy the desired therapeutic benefits.
Keep Human CBD Edibles Away from Dogs
We earlier mentioned that dogs and humans react the same way when they consume CBD products. This does not mean that you can give your dog a CBD product that is specifically made for humans. An important component of cannabis plants is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is known for its intoxicating effect.
THC is common in CBD edibles, and it is toxic to dogs. Also, the ingredients used in making the product (chocolate or artificial sweeteners) are appetizing to humans, but they can kill your dog. When a dog consumes human cannabidiol edibles, it results in THC toxicosis. Generally, dogs recover from the condition, but many of them die before they recover completely.
The commonest symptoms of toxicosis in dogs are lethargy and impaired coordination. They may also vomit, bob their heads, flinch at motions or sounds, and dribble urine. Other signs include bradycardia (reduced heart rate), excessive drooling, increased physical sensitivity, and dilated pupils.
In rare cases, dogs may become agitated or aggressive. They may experience tachycardia (increased heart rate), hypotension (reduced blood pressure), and repetitive eye movement. You can read this article to learn how to treat your dog with CBD.
Final Thoughts
CBD for pets is available in tinctures (oils), capsules, treats, and chews. Do not administer or allow your pet to consume products that are made for humans as they may have dire consequences. There is currently no medication for tetrahydrocannabinol toxicosis.
Contact a veterinarian immediately you suspect that your dog consumed a cannabidiol product for humans. They will monitor the dog’s heart rate, blood pressure, and overall health condition. Typically, the THC leaves the dog’s system when they poop.
