There is more and more evidence to suggest that CBD has a ton of health benefits not only for us humans, but for our pets as well. Ranging from relieving symptoms of arthritis or joint pain diminish side effect of skin conditions, such as psoriasis, to behavioral issues, such as aggression or anxiety. Using hemp is a safe, and often cheaper, alternative to prescribed medications.

CBD has been known to:

  • Ease acute pain.
  • Relax an anxious or stressed pet (travel, weather, and other noises).
  • Alleviate severe and chronic pain.
  • Soothe digestive issues.
  • Decrease apathy or nausea.
  • Reduce Inflammation.
  • Support neurological function.
  • Help support a healhty digestve system

 

Research done on CBD and humans has shown that it may be effective in treating epilepsy, anxiety, irritable bowel disease (IBD), and chronic pain. But only a few reliable studies have been done on the effects of CBD in dogs.

One study from 2018 sought to assess safety, anti-inflammatory properties, and anti-pain properties of a CBD oil in dogs with osteoarthritis. Researchers gave dogs doses of 2 or 8 milligrams (mg) per kilogram (kg) of body weight.

Eighty percent of the animals showed improvement in their pain and mobility, as measured by two veterinary resources — the brief pain inventory and the Hudson activity scale. However, it’s important to note that this study was funded by a CBD producer, so the results may be biased.

A small study published in 2019 Trusted Source found that epileptic animals given CBD in addition to seizure medication had significantly fewer seizures than those that received seizure medication and a placebo.

However, similar numbers of pets in both the CBD group and the placebo group responded to treatment and had decreases in seizure activity. The authors recommended further testing before reaching any definitive conclusions.

While these studies and others like them could give a window into CBD’s medicinal potential for dogs, more studies are needed to confirm this research.

Ways to give CBD to pets

CBD for pets comes in many forms, like treats, oils, and creams. But research on the efficacy of each method is sparse.

One Colorado State University study from 2018Trusted Source on dogs with epilepsy found that CBD oil, given orally, was more effective than a cream or gel capsule. However, more research is needed before any conclusions can be made.

Every animal will respond differently, which is why it’s important to start with a small dose, monitor your pet’s results, and adjust from there. Most products will offer dosing suggestions, but keep in mind that these are developed by the manufacturer.

Since pets are like people and vary in sizes and shapes, here are a few pointers.

Tips

  • Start with a low dose.
  • Monitor your pet’s reactions.
  • Increase doses slowly if needed.