As dog lovers, we know how comforting it is to be adored by our pet, so when our dogs become sick, it is heart-wrenching, especially if there is little we can do about the situation. Vet appointments, surgeries, and painkillers are some ways we can try to alleviate their pain, but if nothing works, consider trying the natural compound CBD, which can deliver life-changing benefits to your pet.
The science behind CBD
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a cannabinoid found in the Cannabis Sativa plant species. First discovered in 1940, CBD impressed researchers with its unique trait. Unlike other cannabinoids inhabiting the cannabis plant, CBD cannot make you high because it contains less than 0.3 percent THC. This natural compound cannot trigger paranoia or cause an overdose, making it a safe option for those skeptical about Cannabis products.
CBD triggers various mental, emotional, and physical changes in the body by interacting with the receptors managed by the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is responsible for keeping the body in optimal balance (homeostasis) by regulating temperature, hormones, appetite, sleep, etc. It sends messages to the CB1 and CB2 receptors in the peripheral nervous system and some central nervous system regions. Humans and all animals, including vertebrates, have an endocannabinoid system. CBD implements changes in the body by signaling to the receptors and encouraging the production or reduction of specific chemicals for optimal function.
Research on CBD is in its early studies. However, early data on this natural compound is encouraging. With the World Health Organization’s (WHO) report declaring CBD as safe, this cannabinoid is rising in popularity, with more people opting for this natural remedy to ease their daily challenges. Some also choose CBD for dogs to provide them with a better quality of life.
The remarkable way CBD can help sick dogs.
CBD can provide life-changing benefits for your dog, from mental health challenges to physical issues. The following are the top ways this natural compound can help your dog live a carefree life.
- Manage your dog’s pain levels
Joint problems are common for older dogs due to past injuries or osteoarthritis. Often, vets prescribe painkillers like Gabapentin to alleviate chronic pain, but while the medication is effective, the side effects can be harmful. The deterioration in joints and soft tissues is one risk, and damage to the dog’s organs, including the liver or kidneys, is another. This is why more people are opting for CBD to help their dogs. This natural compound is a potent anti-inflammatory tool. In two separate studies, researchers noted how inflammation decreased in the joints of rats suffering from multiple sclerosis and arthritis, respectively, which led to less pain.
- Ease your dog’s journey with cancer
Cancer is a risk the older your dog gets, and it entails vast physical challenges if you decide to go for radiation or chemotherapy. Luckily, CBD can help ease our dog’s journey by alleviating nausea that comes with chemo and easing pain caused by the radiation. Moreover, CBD can prolong your dog’s life. In one remarkable study, researchers noted how CBD increased the survival time of pancreatic cancer in mice. Another study also indicated that cancer cells were more sensitive to treatment when the patient took CBD, thus enhancing the effectiveness of chemotherapy.
- Lower the risk of seizures
Although CBD studies are in their preliminary stages, researchers have established CBD’s effects on epilepsy. Groundbreaking studies have led the FDA to approve the first-ever CBD-based drug. Doctors can administer this medication to patients with rare epilepsy, including children as young as two, to lower the risk of seizures.
Dogs can also suffer from seizures which can cause them significant anxiety and physical pain. While anti-epileptic drugs are on the market for dogs, they are not always effective. With CBD, you can protect your dog’s organs and lower the risk of epilepsy. Your dog’s mental health will be in good hands too.
- Improve your dog’s mental health
Dogs can feel anxious due to seizures, pain, trauma, and separation. Anxiety in dogs can appear in various forms, including aggression, fear, and noise phobia. CBD can manage your dog’s stress and anxiety levels in multiple ways. In one study, researchers noted CBD’s interaction with the stress hormone cortisol and its ability to manage its overproduction. In doing so, our body does not overproduce it, resulting in chronic stress. This natural compound can interact with neurotransmitters, too, and balance chemical levels to lower anxiety levels.
- Caring for your dog’s well-being
Thanks to its legalization in various countries, it is now a safer and more efficient process to purchase CBD products. The bad news is that the CBD industry for pets is still unregulated. So to ensure your dog has a positive CBD experience, it is best to consult your vet for the best guidance. Your vet can recommend the right CBD brands and recommend the correct dosage. Moreover, with the advice of a medical professional, you can monitor your dog to ensure there is an improvement with CBD.
Conclusion
CBD is no mere fad. This natural compound has been around longer than us, and only time and more research will highlight how remarkable it is in bettering our lives without causing us damage. CBD comes in various products. CBD oil is an excellent product for your dog as you can mix it with food for easier ingestion, while you may need help to get your dog to ingest a CBD capsule.