CBD for Dogs: Tips for Successful Cannabidiol Treatments
by Ruth Roberts, DVM, CVA, CVH, CVFT, NAN
(June 2024, Natural MKE Magazine)
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a standout compound found in cannabis and hemp plants. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), it will not get a pet "high", but it has caught the attention of dog owners worldwide for its health benefits. With more than 100 cannabinoids interacting with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS) to regulate everything from mood to inflammation, it is no wonder that CBD supplements for pets are on the rise. But as popularity grows, so do questions and concerns.
CBD Safety
Research suggests that CBD is generally safe for dogs when used responsibly. A 2022 study published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science determined that a daily dose of 4 milligrams (mg) of CBD per kilogram of body weight was well-tolerated in clinically healthy dogs for six months. Another study published in the same journal two years earlier tested the tolerability of three cannabis oil formulations containing CBD, THC or a combination of CBD and THC versus a placebo. The researchers found that dogs tolerated escalating doses of 18.3 to 640.5 mg of CBD oil well, concluding that a CBD-predominant oil formulation was safer for dogs than formulas containing higher concentrations of THC.
Choosing the Right Product
Angela Ardolino, founder of CBD Dog Health, highlights the benefits of full-spectrum hemp extract, which, unlike CBD isolates, incorporates a broad array of cannabinoids, including CBD and even THC in trace amounts up to the legal threshold of 0.03 percent. She recommends choosing organic, U.S. hemp-derived products to guarantee purity and legal compliance; CO2 extraction for a high-quality, solvent-free extract; and formulations made specifically for dogs rather than humans to prevent overdosing and unnecessary ingredients.
According to Ardolino, products should have enough CBD to treat a condition effectively, from 6 to 12 mg for stress or anxiety to 12 mg for pain and 50 to 100 mg for severe conditions like cancer or seizures. Consider bioavailability, also sublingual oils are most effective for absorption.
"Only choose products that have a COA [certificate of analysis] by a third-party lab that tests for potency and purity and to ensure it has no contaminants like pesticides, heavy metals, mycotoxins or solvents in the product," recommends Ardolino. "This is also the only way to prove that you are buying a full-spectrum hemp extract. It should be easily found on the label or on the website. If you can't easily find one, don't buy the product." Customer reviews can also provide insights into a product's efficacy, safety and quality, as well as a company's transparency and level of customer support.
Getting a Dog Started on CBD
While the general guidance is to start with a low dose and adjust based on the dog's response, Ardolino notes that conditions like seizures, pain or cancer may require a higher dosage from the start. She acknowledges that dogs may initially experience a mild psychoactive effect, but this typically subsides as they become accustomed to CBD. The key is to monitor a pet's reaction closely and adjust the dosage as needed to find a balance that alleviates symptoms without causing discomfort.
Duration of Effects
How long the effects of CBD will last depends on a variety of factors, including a dog's size, as well as the dosage and administration method. A 2021 study published in Animals found that an intravenous administration of CBD will generally be eliminated from the body within nine hours. However, an oral dose, which is influenced by food intake and liver processing, has a lower bioavailability (13 to 19 percent), so less CBD enters the bloodstream, and yet its effects may last longer due to a slower absorption rate. The exact duration varies with dosage, metabolism and whether it is taken with food.
Potential Risks
While CBD is generally well-received by many dogs, some may experience mild side effects, including dry mouth, a decrease in blood pressure or drowsiness. Selecting the appropriate dosage and a high-quality product is crucial to minimize these risks. Research indicates that CBD can also influence liver enzymes, notably cytochrome P450s and alkaline phosphatase, both essential in metabolizing various medications. Consequently, there is a potential risk of interactions when CBD is used alongside other drugs, possibly altering the effectiveness and required dosages of those medications. Therefore, despite the availability of CBD treats and products, consulting a veterinarian before introducing a CBD regimen is vital to ensure safety and efficacy.
Ruth Roberts is an integrative veterinarian and holistic health coach for pets, as well as the creator of The Original CrockPet Diet. Learn more at DrRuthRoberts.com.
For complete Natural MKE Article in the June 2024 Issue:
https://issuu.com/na-milw/docs/milwaukeejune24web/2?ff&showOtherPublicationsAsSuggestions=true
.
.
.
HEAR WHAT OUR BUDS HAVE TO SAY ABOUT DNA...
”Amazing products, especially the body balm. I fell skiing and twisted my neck and ended up with some back issues after the fall. I used DNA body balm and the inflammation and pain nearly disappeared. Also, their website is super easy to navigate and the product I ordered shipped so quickly!!!! Try this stuff- You will not be disappointed.”
-Meagan Z.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
”DNA hemp is where it’s at to get all of your CBD needs met! Ashley and Kelly are so knowledgeable about CBD and how it works in your body. Highly recommend them!!”
-Jessica J.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“The products are great and the service is always first class. The company is a part of our community and they support good causes, that make us a better place to live. I'm a veteran and we have been supported by DNA Hemp as well as the Village of Slinger.”
-Tom H.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
”I’ve had the gummies and pre-rolls, both work wonderfully to give you that chill vibe. DNA Hemp’s CBD seems to work much better than other brands I’ve tried. Keep up the good work, guys! 💗”
-Erin H.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
”I'm a massage therapist, I use DNA Hemps Body Balm and Body oil as a free add on during services. Quite a few of my clients have purchased from DNA Hemp already and I just got it in on my shelves! I love this stuff for my wrists. And ...TOO KEEP MOSQUITOS AWAY!”
-Cayla C.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“I have trouble going back to sleep after waking in the middle of the night. DNA’s hemp gummies calm my mind and relax my body so I can get some more z’s. I wake up feeling rested. No grogginess or sleeping pill hangover. Love this product and very happy to support this Wisconsin business! Highly recommend.”
-Liz J.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
”Fantastic company to work with. You can pick up their products at different local businesses, farmer markets, or have it shipped right to your home. Place a big enough order and you won't pay for shipping! I can't recommend them enough!! ♡♡”
-Dawn V.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
”This company is the best! Pure, top notch quality products. The owners put so much love and care into their work. I wouldn’t buy CBD anywhere else!”
-Brooke N.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
”I have been on a quest to find the real deal in the cannabis industry as a certified cannabis educator, so I can help spread the love of these companies to help heal others through actual health and wellness. I ordered a plethora of products to try out. So far, I am extremely pleased with the quality, the effect, and the obvious love and care put into these products as they are holistic and organically grown medicine for the whole body comprised with pure LOVE! I personally know, anything infused with "reiki" with intention of nothing but the highest good...is the real deal! Peace, Love, and may God Bless unlimited Blessings to DNA Hemp, Ashley and Danny, and any other staff for all your hard work, knowledge, and of course all of your offerings as a result!”
-Bethany S.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
”The balm is the best! It helps tremendously with body aches and pains...even cramps. My family uses this natural product regularly. DNA hemp has helped us in such a tremendous way!”
-Kristi M.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
”I have the pet CBD salmon oil and it has worked wonders for my fur baby. not only is he teething but he had a bunch of anxiety. the product has helped me with his training process as his anxiety is toned down. it took about a week to get the full effect but I forgot to dose him one day and you could definitely see the difference in his craziness. highly recommend! I use it twice a day .5ml and I still have more than 3/4 of the bottle and I've been using it a little more than a week now.”
-Marie S.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Leave us your Google Review Now
SUBSCRIBE TO OUR DNA HIGH VIBE TRIBE
**Be sure to join our High Vibe Tribe to be the first to learn about coupon codes, events, educational pieces, recipes, VIP discounts, & More!
FOLLOW US ON THIS GROOVY ADVENTURE
**Follow, friend, like, share and add us on social for an insider's peek at our miraculous hemp adventures!
