What is the Science Behind CBD for Pets?

Is The Science In For CBD For Pets?

pets and cbd

CBD or cannabidiol has become a hot topic as users find quite a few benefits and relief from using doses of this. The one thing that needs to be stressed is that CBD does not get you high like THC in marijuana does. There are no psychoactive properties of CBD so it has been used by a plethora of people of all ages. Now CBD has started to gain popularity with pet owners that see improvements in things like movement in dogs with joint pain or a calming effect for pets with anxiety. With the federal limitations on many things medical marijuana related studies are not as prevalent as they should be. The question then begs “Is the science in for CBD for pets?” as consumers need to know to make an educated decision on whether to give their pet CBD. Below are things you need to know about the science associated with giving your pets cannabidiol for different ailments.

Lack Of Studies Doesn’t Not Mean There Has Not Been Promising Results

Those that are opposed to use of medical marijuana love to state that there is lack of evidence that it helps as there haven’t been peer reviewed studies done. The fact that the studies could not qualify for federal funding due to the illegality of marijuana federally is often conveniently forgotten. Cornell University recently completed a study on CBD and dogs with arthritis with extremely positive results. More than 80 percent of the dogs saw an increase in mobility and a decrease in overall pain.

Understand That Your Veterinarian Cannot Prescribe It

If you are going to the vet for a recommendation or prescription for CBD you are going to be sorely disappointed. State veterinarian boards adhere to federal laws which are against medical cannabis. Even in states where marijuana is legal recreationally like California do not have a precedent set for recommending CBD to pets as it is illegal. Recently there has been some leeway given for pets that are in severe pain from specific illnesses. This is seen as a compassionate care law for pets which has gone into effect as of January 1st 2019.

Don’t Forget About Cats

The research is not plentiful for dogs and it is even more scarce when it comes to CBD and cats. Most people would think that the compound impacts dogs and cats the same but this is far from the truth. Different animals metabolize chemicals in different ways and have far different reaction to them. In a small study conducted it was found the CBD works better for anxiety in cats than dogs.

Research Then Trial and Error

If you find that CBD is used to treat something that your pet suffers from through research, try out the product. You might find the results are not what you are looking for as it made your dog a little too calm. For older dogs this can really impact their quality of life as joint pain can really limit a dog’s movement as they age. The lack of movement can lead to weight gain that only worsens the pain they have daily. Start with a low dosage to see if it helps and if it does stay at that dosage. Check out dosage charts on CBD products associated with weight to make sure you are giving them the correct amount. Make sure to pick a reliable brand like Cannabidog as homemade CBD products could have issues measuring dosage accurately.

THC Is Still Up For Debate

THC has a mild toxic effect on dogs with some recommending to never use it while there are proponents of THC usage for dogs in the veterinary field. Our receptors for CBD and THC in dogs versus humans are not as different as many might think which is noted as a reason for some professionals recommending further studies be done. The other issue with this is that it is illegal to have THC in any form in some states and you could be charged with animal cruelty for administering a illegal narcotic to your pet.

CBD is going to continue to be researched with more and more studies that will be done in the future. Remember that your goal for your pet is to make them live as high quality of a life as possible. If CBD can help with that then this should strongly be considered as a treatment option. Do not let the “reefer madness” of the past that many in the older generation were exposed to impact your decision or pet’s life. Take time to look online for success stories of using CBD as you might find a situation that is extremely similar to the one of your pet. CBD has been found as a miracle cure for some pets so you owe it to yours if they are in pain to try it out!