When your best friend is hurting, chances are your heart is too. Pet owners know when their furry companions aren’t feeling well, they usually want to do whatever it takes to make them feel like their old self again.
Not all veterinarians are aware or even legally allowed to prescribe CBD oil for pets who are in pain or suffering in some way. However, the American Kennel Club and PetMed report that many people with both dogs and cats have seen noticeable improvements in their pet’s condition with treatment.
There is a lot of confusion regarding CBD oil benefits in pets and humans alike. There’s a reason for that. The science that supports the use of CBD oil for relief and health support is relatively new.
Endocannabinoid System
Scientists made a dramatic discovery regarding the body less than 30 years ago. They found an entirely new system in the body, which they called the endocannabinoid system. It is present in all mammals with a spine, and it works in conjunction with the body’s endocrine system in a supportive role.
This system uses chemical compounds, which the body creates naturally, to offer homeostasis for important bodily functions. Everything that the glands of the endocrine system allow to function benefits from healthy levels of endocannabinoids.
However, stress from the environment or other unknown mental causes can put added pressure on this system. When scientists realized that the cannabis plant naturally contains phytocannabinoids, which act similarly to the body-made compounds, the health industry took note.
What Benefits from CBD Oil?
Specifically, the endocannabinoid system supports:
- Sleep regulation
- Mood balance, such as anxiety
- Appetite
- Hormones
- Pain management
Independent scientific studies show that CBD oil has great promise for alleviating and regulating these issues in both humans and animals such as dogs, cats, ferrets, horses, and other mammals. However, since more research is necessary and each body is different, the serving size for each individual can differ dramatically.
Giving Pets CBD Oil
To experiment with giving CBD oil to pets, you need to purchase a bottle that is just for the animal to avoid any cross-contamination.
Always start with a smaller amount. You can put the oil on a treat or just put the dropper directly in your pet’s mouth, depending on their disposition. There are some products available with CBD oil in edible form. Check to make sure there is a minimal amount of THC in the edible, as the goal is not psychotropic.
Check the potency of the oil, as different brands have different numbers of doses. For animals that are under 10 pounds, start with just a couple drops and increase based on the weight. When you decide on a serving size, be consistent for a week to see if you notice a difference in your pet’s behavior.
It is possible to give too little or too much. Since they can’t talk to you, it’s a good idea to take notes regarding any vocalization, inability to sleep, or aggressive actions. With experimentation, hopefully, your best friend will be back to its loving, happy self soon.
