CBD for dogs: some facts

CBD products have become increasingly popular in recent years, and abundant information is available online. However, choosing CBD products that are safe and effective for your dog can be challenging because you want to give him the best treatment possible.

A study by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) examined the use of CBD in pets. Cannabis in veterinary medicine: This 50-page overview provides a basis for analyzing the current CBD landscape for dogs. In addition to reviewing potential adverse reactions to animals, this report summarizes manufacturing processes and examines product quality and regulatory requirements.

You should know about some CBD pet products even though they are still being researched.

What is CBD oil, and how does it work?

A cannabis pet product usually contains CBD, short for cannabidiol, which does not cause a "high." CBD is present in many cannabis products.

Pets shouldn't have access to edibles.

It is also important to note that cannabis plants contain THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). As a result of its intoxicating properties, THC is known as the compound that causes intoxication.

Edibles often contain THC, a substance that is poisonous to dogs. The ingredients that make edibles more tasty to humans, such as sweeteners or chocolate, can also be fatal for dogs.

According to the AVMA report, THC toxicosis (which results from THC poisoning) has a high incidence of symptoms but a low incidence of deaths. It is generally believed that dogs recover from THC toxicosis, but it is a life-threatening condition and has caused dogs to die.

THC toxicosis is most commonly associated with impaired coordination and lethargy. They may also become more sensitive to sounds or motions, which often manifests as flinching. Dogs may vomit, dribble urine, or bobble their heads. A slow heartbeat (bradycardia) is another common symptom of hypothyroidism, along with dilated pupils and heightened physical sensitivity.

It is less common for dogs to become aggressive or agitated. In addition to rapid heartbeats (tachycardia), repetitive eye movements, abnormally slow breathing, and low blood pressure (hypotension), this condition can also cause rapid heartbeats (tachycardia).

Theoretically, your dog should experience symptoms within minutes of inhaling CBD, but getting them to breathe CBD smoke or vapor is challenging. It may take hours for symptoms to appear after ingesting it. Various edible CBD products are available for dogs, including tinctures (oils), treats, chews, and capsules. It can take up to 12 hours before pet owners notice symptoms after ingestion, but they typically appear one to three hours after ingestion. A variety of toxicities have been documented for dogs of all ages. However, young dogs are more likely to be affected than older dogs.

It is more common to suffer from hypothermia (a significant drop in body temperature) than hyperthermia (a substantial increase in body temperature). However, both are possible.

If you suspect your dog has eaten an edible, please get in touch with your veterinarian immediately. In 45 percent of CBD exposures reported to the Pet Poison Helpline, veterinarian intervention was required. In addition to monitoring your dog's blood pressure, heart rate, and overall health, the veterinarian can treat your dog for THC toxicosis. The majority of THC is excreted through the feces.

There Isn't Always Honesty on CBD Labels

Many CBD products have been introduced to the market in recent years. However, their safety and efficiency could be improved due to a lack of regulations. The AVMA report noted that accurate and precise testing of CBD products is urgently needed.

Researchers in a 2019 study found that 13 CBD oils intended for animals had inaccurate label information compared to the chemical content of the products. Various CBD products on the market contain different amounts of cannabinoids than stated on their labels, according to a report published in the Journal of the American Medical Association. Consumer lab analysis confirms these findings.    

According to the AVMA report, established laboratories and new ones are encouraged to pursue new business opportunities through financial incentives in the cannabis industry. However, these efforts sometimes need to be held to higher standards of professionalism and rigor.

The testing protocols for CBD products still need to be defined and consistent and differ from state to state. Manual labor is also required in testing, which is a slow process. Because of this, different laboratories have reported receiving different results from the same sample.

Quality testing is essential for consistently safe products. If chemical safety protocols are in place, cannabis, and cannabis-derived products will be more effective in treating pets' medical ailments. In addition, the approved products will be accepted and used by a broader audience.

It is promising that CBD can be used to treat pain in dogs

A summary report cited in one study reported that the most common reasons for using CBD products for dogs and cats were pain management, seizures, neoplasia, quality of life, and anxiety.

The research on CBD's therapeutic potential for dogs is promising, even though few studies are available.

Colorado State University found a significant correlation between CBD and seizure reduction in a small study assessing CBD's short-term effect on seizure management. This study's potential positive results highlight the need for further research.

Additionally, three studies have shown that CBD may be effective in treating osteoarthritis. An owner assessment of the effects of CBD-rich hemp oil on their dogs found significant reductions in pain and an increase in activity.

Another study found that 94 percent of dog owners thought the treatment positively impacted their pets' quality of life. Their dogs slept less and interacted with family more when they used CBD-rich hemp products.

Three osteoarthritis pain-management studies found that dogs improved their walking ability.

A greater amount of research is needed.

Further research is needed since the results so far have been positive. However, this treatment's long-term benefits and adverse effects are limited. Pet owners must know the ongoing need for research in this field.

Many CBD products are untested and unregulated only when further research and regulations are in place. That's why purchasing CBD products with a certificate of analysis for every batch is so important. If you are considering using CBD products on your canine companion, please consult a veterinarian first. Taking this step will ensure your pet's safety and well-being.

Innovative Hemp Oils offers a full spectrum of pure hemp oils without harmful compounds. Their oil is certified organic by the USDA, and third parties test it to ensure purity and consistency. Innovative's affordable products can help pets manage anxiety, pain, and other conditions. For more information on Innovative's CBD products, visit the website.