The market for cannabidiol, or CBD, has been growing at an amazing rate. In 2018, the market was estimated to rake in over $590 million. Experts are calling for the value to amount to billions in the next five years or so.
One of the major reasons for growth in the CBD market is scientific research about health benefits. New studies say it can help with everything from cancer to skin problems and pain management.
As people explore CBD for their own health, they’ve also wondered if it can do anything for their pets. You may have heard about this trend, and now you’re wondering about the CBD oil benefits for dogs.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the science behind CBD and wellness. We’ll also take a look at the potential benefits of CBD oil for pets.
All about CBD
Before we dive into how CBD and cannabis can help your furry friends, let’s take a look at some of the science.
What is CBD anyway?
Cannabidiol is one of many cannabinoids found in cannabis. Cannabinoids appear to interact with the endocannabinoid system in the body.
Most mammals seem to have an endocannabinoid system. Humans and other animals produce substances like those found in cannabis. When you use cannabis, the cannabinoids interact with this system.
Much of the scientific research done on CBD and other cannabinoids has been carried out on mice and rats. While CBD may not work for all animals, there’s a good chance cats, dogs, and even humans experience the same effects.
What Science Says CBD Can do
One of the reasons CBD oils are so popular is because of the wealth of scientific research showing what it can do. It appears CBD has many different effects on health and wellness.
Some areas of research suggest CBD could be helpful for:
- Relieving pain
- Reducing nausea and vomiting
- Assisting in sleep
- Controlling seizures associated with epilepsy
- Alleviating anxiety and other mental health conditions
- Reducing inflammation
Some preliminary studies have suggested CBD could have even more profound effects. Some research has looked at how it could help preserve brain health or even reverse aging in rodents. Other early studies show links between CBD and treatments for cancer and HIV/AIDS.
CBD has other potential effects too. Some studies show an effect on high blood pressure. Other studies say its anti-inflammatory properties help with rheumatoid arthritis and gastrointestinal issues.
How CBD Works
CBD works in several different ways. Unlike THC, another common cannabinoid, CBD appears to affect many systems in the body. For example, it may interact with receptors for serotonin, working to improve mood.
CBD also has anti-inflammatory properties. Like THC, it has pain-relieving properties. Unlike THC, it doesn’t have psychotropic effects.
Are There CBD Benefits for Dogs?
As we mentioned, lots of the research that’s been done has used mice and rats as their test subjects. We don’t know if the effects we see in mice and rats will always happen in other animals too.
That said, there’s good reason to believe the effects of CBD could help humans, cats, and dogs too.
One of CBD’s primary uses in human health is as a pain-reliever. There’s evidence CBD for dogs provides similar pain relief.
CBD and other cannabinoids have been well-researched in cancer treatment for humans. Besides pain relief, CBD affects appetite. It seems to reduce nausea and vomiting for people with cancer.
The same seems to be true of dogs. If your pet has cancer or is undergoing treatment, CBD could provide relief from the symptoms.
Cannabis for dogs also helps to control seizures like it does in humans. There are several theories about why CBD reduces seizures, but the fact seems to be it does help.
CBD oil for dogs may also be helpful if your furry companion is nervous or has anxiety. Research in humans suggests CBD’s effects include a reduction in anxiety. Pet parents and veterinarians report similar effects for dogs and cats.
CBD may even have benefits for heart health in your dog. Some people have reported a reduction in heart murmurs and other effects.
Practicing Cannabis Safety for Pets
The science of CBD for pets is still very young. When you take in the entire field of research, though, it becomes obvious CBD oils do have some benefits for pets.
The question for science to answer now is how much this alternative medicine helps. More research into the area will help answer questions.
If you think a CBD oil treatment might be right for your pet, there are some precautions you should take.
First, make sure any cannabis product you give your pet is THC-free. While rare, THC toxicity poses a huge risk to dogs and pets when using cannabis. This is why it’s not a good idea to give your dog products meant for humans.
CBD oil, by contrast, is not psychoactive. In large doses, it can cause lethargy and a loss of appetite. It could cause other symptoms, such as diarrhea.
How long does CBD oil last? It depends on a few factors, such as the dose and even the product you’re using. Generally speaking, the effects will wear off in a few hours.
An overdose may last longer, extending over days. While CBD overdose doesn’t have long-lasting effects, THC poses bigger risks.
The best bet? Use CBD products designed for your pet. They’re much safer for your pet than products designed for humans.
Always be sure to store your pet’s CBD oils where they can’t reach them. Follow the directions from your veterinarian carefully.
Give Your Pet the Best Care Possible
There are clearly CBD oil benefits for dogs. With that in mind, cannabis could be one of the treatments you use to protect your furry friend’s health.
Check out our blog to discover more ways you can take care of your pet’s health, and your own too.