CBD and your pet - is it safe?

The bond people have with their pets is unbreakable. If you’re a pet parent, you know you will do whatever it takes to ensure they are well and getting the best possible care at all times. Unfortunately, just like humans, dogs can suffer from a variety of illnesses that may necessitate the use of medicine, both long-term and short-term, to help them recover.

However, people have begun to look into alternative medicine for their pets, one method of which involves the use of CBD treatment. 

Now, you may have quite a few questions as it relates to CBD and pets. Is it safe? How should they consume it? Let’s dig a little deeper to find out.

What are the Benefits (and side effects) of CBD for Pets and Animals? 

Benefits

Both humans and animals have an endocannabinoid system (ECS). The aim of the ECS in the body is to achieve and maintain balance and harmony of all the processes in the body. CBD is believed to react with the ECS of the body, which is why it is so effective at treating ailments. 

As with humans, pets and animals can be treated with CBD for a range of psychological and physiological medical issues, including pain, anxiety, seizures, nausea, cardiac and inflammatory issues. 

• Pain relief - Due to the anti-inflammatory properties in CBD, an animal that absorbs it into its system can experience pain relief. While studies are still being conducted to determine the exact way that CBD reduces pain, it is believed that it affects the nerves involved in creating pain sensations. 
• Seizures - If you have ever watched your pet experience a seizure, you know it’s an absolutely heartbreaking thing to encounter. CBD has been shown to help treat epilepsy in dogs when used in combination with anti-seizure medications. 

Although it is not yet fully understood exactly how CBD reduces the frequency of seizures, it is thought to prevent the neurons in the brain from overreacting and depleting electrolytes.

• Animal anxiety - As humans, we know how crippling anxiety can be for us. So we can only imagine how hard it is for our pets in this great big world. Pet anxiety can manifest itself in various ways, including inappropriate urinating, destroying furniture, and sporadic barking. 

CBD eases nervousness and restores calm to the body, due to its ability to trigger the release of serotonin in the brain. 

Possible side effects of CBD in animals

While all these benefits sound amazing, there are still some potential adverse effects associated the use of CBD in treating animals. Typically, the higher the dosage, the more severe the side effects they may experience if any. Some may include changes to appetite, fatigue, diarrhea, dry mouth, and low blood pressure. 

CBD for Dogs and Pets? 

CBD oils, topical creams, and treats are made available for pets, but there are some CBD products made for humans that can also be used for pets. You should, however, always consult with your vet about specific dosage and uses. 

Is CBD safe for Dogs and Pets?

CBD is continuously being explored, and new discoveries are being presented on a regular basis. While the FDA has not yet approved the use of CBD in pets, many pet owners already do so and are happy with the result. 

If you choose to start your pet on CBD, it is advisable to start in very small doses, but most importantly, consult with your veterinarian before you begin. Especially if your pet is currently on other medications.