Can I Give My Dog CBD For Pain Relief?

Can I Give My Dog CBD For Pain Relief?

Much attention has been given to the potential benefits of CBD products in human health, but it has also attracted attention as a potential veterinary medicine. As with CBD for humans, a lot of contradictory information is available and scientific research is limited, but there is some evidence that CBD may be able to help your pet if they suffer from chronic pain.

What is CBD?

CBD is one of many compounds that can be derived from the hemp plant. When taken by humans, it interacts with what is known as the endocannabinoid system to create a variety of responses. CBD is related to THC (the compound associated with the “high” of recreational hemp products) but does not have the same intoxicating effects. In recent years, CBD has become an increasingly popular treatment for a variety of medical conditions in humans, including epilepsy, multiple sclerosis and chronic pain. CBD for humans is available as an oil, gel, supplement or edible, among other forms. It can now also be found in similar forms being advertised as a treatment for pets, including dogs.

CBD and dogs

If CBD can be used to treat chronic pain in humans, including the discomfort caused by conditions such as arthritis, it is natural to consider whether it could have the same impact on animals. Like humans, dogs have an endocannabinoid system, and it is when CBD binds with receptors and neurotransmitters in that system that associated effects such as reductions in pain, inflammation and anxiety can sometimes be seen.

Older dogs are at particular risk of chronic pain, just as humans get stiffer and achier as they age. They develop conditions such as arthritis that cannot be cured but do need to be managed. Younger dogs, meanwhile, do tend to be highly energetic and not always good at spotting danger. That means it is quite easy for them to become injured. No dedicated pet owner wants to see their beloved animal suffering, so you are likely to look for anything that can ease the pain.

CBD Oil for Pets is just one example of a product that may be able to reduce some of the physical pain dogs experience, whatever its cause, as well as helping with other conditions, such as anxiety. It is available for dogs as well as cats and other animals, and there are no known side effects or contraindications. Less inflammation and less pain means your dog will be happier and healthier.

Differences between CBD for humans and CBD for dogs

The most obvious difference between a human and a dog is size. The kind of dose that would be mild for a human could be quite dangerous for a dog that has a much smaller body mass. If you choose to give your dog CBD as pain relief, it is important to ensure you give them a product that is designed for dogs and follow any dosage instructions faithfully. Do not give them CBD for humans.

Most products will be formulated for the average dog, so if your pet is particularly large or small, you may need to vary the dose. If you are unsure, consult with your vet. They may recommend starting with a smaller dose and increasing gradually depending on your dog’s response. There is always a certain amount of individuality in any reaction to CBD, so take it slowly and monitor your dog’s responses carefully. All the evidence suggests CBD is safe for dogs, but you still have to administer it responsibly.

The Law

Full spectrum CBD products formulated in America from American-grown hemp have to comply with federal law. That means they must contain less than 0.3% THC. Any product that follows these rules is completely legal, as well as being free from the negative side effects that THC can sometimes cause. This is true for CBD products for humans as well as CBD products for dogs.

In conclusion, research into the impact of CBD products on dogs is still in its early days, but there are suggestions that it may be helpful for managing pain or anxiety. As always, the most important thing is to source your CBD products from a reliable supplier where you can trust the ingredients not to contain harmful additives and to follow all official guidance from vets.