CBD: What is it and how does it help your pets?
We get a lot of questions about the use of CBD on pets and in pet products. There is a lot of confusion about the products itself since it stems from the marijuana plant. People are hesitant or concerned that they are going to get their pets "high" So we wanted to break down some of the information and hopefully alleviate some of the confusion and concerns.
The marijuana plant has two main active ingredients — delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). THC is the substance responsible for the “high” people experience when they use marijuana. CBD, on the other hand, does not cause a “high” and studies suggest it has a range of potential health benefits. CBD is a non-psychotropic compound. Cannabidiols are the chemicals that trigger the cannabinoid and other receptors in the brain and body. There are two types of cannabinoid receptors, CB1 (primarily in the brain, liver, kidneys, and lungs). And CB2 (mainly in the immune system). This makes up what is known as the endocannabinoid system, which helps regulate memory, appetite, pain sensation, mood, sleep and more. CBD is not designed to make you high. Its designed to heal. CBD influences a wide range of receptor systems in all of these areas and helps the system to operate in a more optimal fashion. It asks the CB1 and CB2 receptors to regulate or delay certain chemicals from reaching areas or inhibiting enzymes from breaking down. Thus helping to reduce pain, or inflammation, etc.
While there’s no definitive scientific data on using CBD to treat dogs, there’s anecdotal evidence from dog owners suggesting it can treat pain, especially neuropathic pain, as well as helping to control seizures. According to Dr. Klein, CBD is also used because of its anti-inflammatory properties, cardiac benefits, anti-nausea effects, appetite stimulation, anti-anxiety impact, and for possible anti-cancer benefits, although there’s no conclusive data on this use. The AKC Canine Health Foundation (CHF) is sponsoring a study through the Colorado State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences to evaluate the use of CBD in treatment-resistant epileptic dogs. The CHF hopes that this will be the first study to gain scientific data on the use of CBD in dogs with this condition.
CBD is non-toxic, non-euphoric (you don’t feel or get stoned). Limited scientific study has shown that CBD can be therapeutic for many conditions including, but not limited to rheumatoid arthritis. CBD has strong anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-spasm, anti-convulsant, anti-psychotic, anti-tumoral, neuro-protective properties and more. CBD has additionally been suggested and known to help with chronic pain, cancer, anxiety, diabetes, PTSD, and so much more. It has the benefit of relaxing without the side-affects that many over the counter prescription drugs have, such as involuntary drowsiness. CBD has shown benefit for animals in a range of conditions including, but not limited to, inflammatory problems, seizures, pain relief, and anxiety as mentioned above. Using CBD for pet health problems is based on the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). The goal of the ECS is to achieve and maintain balance of all processes in the body. This is thought to be the reason CBD may have so many potential benefits. Keep in mind that every pet’s ECS functions a little bit differently, so CBD may work better for some than others.
Sadly, more research needs to be done to test the effectiveness of CBD for many other diseases and issues. It should also be noted that because these products haven’t been reviewed or approved by the FDA, you should discuss using CBD with a veterinarian who has experience treating pets with CBD before starting anything new. Together, you’ll come up with a plan on how to safely help your furry friend feel the best they can.
4 Pawz is currently selling a variety of pet safe CBD products in-store/office. Feel free to come on in and ask us about them!
What experiences have you had with CBD if any? What products are your favorite?