Using CBD products on your pet can have multiple benefits for their overall health, however, depending on their health history, CBD could also cause some adverse effects. Understanding that it’s important to be knowledgeable beforehand, here are some questions you can start asking before giving your pet CBD products. 

What are the benefits?

Cannabinoids can be very beneficial for our pets in the same way they can be helpful to the human body. CBD can provide joint support by providing soothing properties to connective tissues and increase overall mobility. CBD can also help with G.I. issues by calming nausea and some other stomach troubles if your dog accidentally ingested something harmful. This can also help boost your pet’s overall mood. If your pet is experiencing some restlessness or situational anxiety, CBD has been used to help provide a calming sensation. CBD has also been used to support pets’ brain function over time. With the hope of your pets living for many years, cannabinoids can help regulate the endocannabinoid system that regulates their sleep, mood, memory and appetite, which can increase positive outcomes in their overall behavior.

Which form Is best?

There are a variety of forms in which to consume CBD. However, the best form is an oral form that includes terpenes and other beneficial cannabinoids. This is because CBD seems to work best when it’s in conjunction with other compounds existing naturally within the plant rather than being isolated. This is known as the “entourage effect.” The two most used oils found in pet products are isolates and broad-spectrum oils. Isolate oil only contains CBD and no other parts of the hemp plant. Because of this, it doesn’t provide the maximum benefit to your pet. Broad-spectrum oil, however, contains some other plant compounds that make it highly beneficial but does not include THC. Overall, you should avoid products that include any THC, which can be toxic to dogs and other pets.

Is it harmful?

Like anything you ingest, all good things come in moderation. The same holds true for the amount of CBD you provide to your pet. When improperly dosed, CBD has shown some negative side effects for pets including dry mouth, upset stomach, drowsiness and lethargy. However, these problems can typically be remedied by adjusting the dosage. Current guidelines suggest that when taken orally, you should try to limit the amount to between 0.25 to 0.5 mg CBD per pound of your pet’s weight, with 0.25 representing a moderate dose and 0.5 mg representing a high dose. For example, a pet weighing 20 pounds and receiving a moderate dose can be expected to safely consume 5mg of CBD in a single dose. A  20-lb. pet with a high tolerance or a more severe issue being treated should be able to safely consume a 10mg dose. Before going for the full amount, try micro-dosing your pet to monitor the effects and eventually work them up to their full suggested dose. You should always consult your veterinarian to consider factors such as your pet’s medical history and interactions with other medications your pet may be taking. Not all CBD products are created equal. Due to a current lack of regulation of CBD products, only purchase CBD products for your pet from reputable companies that have their products third-party lab tested for quality, purity and THC level compliance.

Is it legal?

CBD is legal, but some veterinarians are hesitant to suggest CBD because it hasn’t yet been widely studied in clinical settings. For this reason, some practicing vets fear professional and legal repercussions, however, most are always interested to discuss the topic if you ask. CBD products are not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for pets, but neither are some common supplements such as glucosamine or fish oil tabs. Also, most human-approved prescription drugs or treatments prescribed by veterinary practice are not approved by the FDA. While it is technically legal to sell and consume hemp products that contain less than 0.3 percent of THC, the law is still very unclear and has been left up to the consumer and practicing professionals to decide what treatments are best for pets. Research and regulation of CBD for animals is still in its early stages since the legalization of hemp, but there have been many positive developments in these areas.

How often can I give my dog CBD?

Again, moderation is key! Depending on the concentration, tinctures may be given to your pet on a daily basis, but be sure to monitor the frequency by need or situation. Depending on the dosage and the severity of the ailment or behavioral issue, some current guidelines suggest that you can give your pet CBD every 8 to 12 hours, as needed. It may take up to an hour before your pet feels the effects, and effects typically last between 4 to 8 hours. It’s important to be aware of your pet’s behaviors to determine whether additional doses are needed and how frequently your pet may need it. If your pet is receiving other medications or treatments, it is always best to first consult with your veterinarian before giving your pet CB.

Websites

Coile, Caroline. “Does CBD Work for Dogs?” American Kennel Club, American Kennel Club, 15 June 2022, https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/does-cbd-work-for-dogs/.

Dawson, Kimberley. “5 Things to Consider before Giving CBD to Your Dog.” FitBark, 11 Sept. 2020, https://www.fitbark.com/blog/5-things-to-consider-before-giving-cbd-to-your-dog/.

Hazzah, Trina. “CBD for Pets: Benefits, Uses, and Things to Consider.” Great Pet Care, 2 Mar. 2022, https://www.greatpetcare.com/wellness/cbd-for-pets-benefits-uses-and-things-to-consider/.

“The Pros & Cons of Using CBD with Your Pet.” AMCMA, 2022, https://amcma.org/blog/article/the-pros-cons-of-using-cbd-with-your-pet.

Shu, Tim. “CBD Dosage for Dogs: What's The Right Amount?” VETCBD Hemp, VETCBD Hemp, 24 Sept. 2020, https://vetcbdhemp.com/blogs/articles/cbd-dosage-for-dogs-whats-the-right-amount.