I thoroughly enjoyed having Buddy as part of my life and daily routine. As he became older, he had arthritis, and I would have done anything I could have to relieve it. When you have a pet, part of that process must be caring for them, but finding an answer to some of their health problems can be daunting.
Buddy was first put on Rimadyl, a pain reliever commonly used to treat arthritis in dogs. It did help some, then we added a joint supplement, which helped a little bit with stiffness. We even tried a topical treatment. Finally, I went and purchased some CBD oil designed for dogs after reading some promising articles about its ability to relieve pain in dogs.
There of course comes a time when a beloved dog, if they live long enough, have mobility problems that cannot be fixed. However, for about a year, I believe the CBD oil helped Buddy with not only pain, but mobility.
What can CBD treat in dogs? Arthritis isn’t the only dog health issue that might be treated with CBD. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC) in an article called, “Does CBD Work for Dogs,” there have been promising results in studies that have addressed CBD treatment of dogs with arthritis, cancer, itchiness, behavior issues and even seizures.
How does CBD work? The article by the AKC explained that all Vertebrates, (animals with backbones), naturally produce endocannabinoid chemicals that have receptors throughout the body. Endocannabinoids are master regulators, signaling other systems in the body on when to speed up or slow down, stabilizing the body and helping it return to homeostasis. Cannabinoids, like THC or CBD, affect the same receptors as the endocannabinoids produced by the body.
THC should not be administered to dogs. “Unlike THC, which can cause toxicity and even death in dogs when given at prescribed human dosages, the worst CBD has been documented to do is cause diarrhea and changes in some liver enzyme values after several weeks” (AKC). The main concern with giving dogs CBD, is how it will respond with other drugs. CBD inhibits a chemical called cytochrome P450, that metabolizes some drugs in the body. If your dog is on a drug which is meant to leave the body after a certain time, then CBD could cause toxic build up from the drug. So, if your dog is on any medication, ask your vet before giving CBD. Personally, I think consulting your vet about any supplement is always a good idea.
Arthritis- There have been a number of studies on CBD in the treatment of osteoarthritis in dogs, and the results are positive. One study by Cornell University, including 22 client-owned dogs with confirmed cases of osteoarthritis, found that the CBD oil, administered twice daily, did show relief in pain, and added mobility as opposed to those taking a placebo (Gamble).
Cancer- An article by the AKC Canine Health Foundation looks at a study from Cornel University on the effects of CBD paired with chemotherapy and without it. The findings in both cases were “CBD oil caused a significant decrease in cancer cell reproduction in all cell lines studied” (Albright). The research rightfully says that more research needs to be done, however, this is very hopeful.
Itchiness-According to the AKC, “Two recent double-blind, placebo-controlled dog studies report CBD significantly reduces itchiness.” Some studies have shown an average of 65% success. Let’s keep in mind that presently, there are many studies paid for by CBD manufacturers. Still, after talking to my vet, I may be trying this for my dog Tipsy.
Behavior- There are plenty of anecdotal reports about CBD calming dogs with anxiety and aggression issues, however, there aren’t many studies and none are conclusive (that I could find) to support CBD as a solid anxiety/behavioral treatment for dogs. It probably helps calm in some situations because it helps relieve pain. Still, with so many dog owners raving about the calming effects, I hope more studies are on the way. If you’re thinking about trying it for your dog, I would consult my vet and maybe a dog trainer.
Seizures- The AKC states that “In this Colorado State University study, dogs given CBD for 12 weeks had 33 percent fewer seizures than those given a placebo, but it didn’t work for every dog.” However, there is more research being done because anyone who knows a dog or person who is susceptible to seizures, knows thar 33% fewer is better. In another ACK article, “Can CBD Help Dogs with Epilepsy” states preliminary in vitro studies of CBD show anticonvulsant effects, and researchers like Dr. McGrath hope that CBD will offer better control of epilepsy with fewer side effects.”
There’s no telling what we’ll learn about CBD and it’s healing properties, but again, it’s a good idea to consult a vet, and check the CBD product you buy-not all are equal. Just because a product is for sale doesn’t mean it will be beneficial for your pet or is even what it says it is. Just because a product says it has “hemp oil” doesn’t mean it contains CBD. Also, in NC, CBD products are legal, so your vet should be able to steer you in the right direction.
References:
Albright, Sharon M, DVM, CCRT. “Promising Research on the Use of CBD to Treat Cancer,” American Kennel Club Canine Health Foundation. 3/22/2021. https://www.akcchf.org/educational-resources/library/articles/promising-research-on-the-use.html Web. Retrieved on 7/14/2022.
Burke, Anna. “Can CBD Help Dogs With Epilepsy”. American Kennel Club. 1/8/2021. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/cbd-oil-for-dog-seizures/ Web. Retrieved on 7/14/2022.
Coile, Caroline, PHD. “Does CBD Work for Dog?” American Kennel Club. 7/1/2021. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/does-cbd-work-for-dogs/ Web. Retrieved 7/14/2022.
Gamble, Lauri-Jo. “Pharmacokinetics, Safety, and Clinical Efficacy of Cannabidiol Treatment in Osteoarthritic Dogs” Frontiers in Veterinary Science. July 2018. https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2018.00165/full. Web. Retrieved 7/14/ 2022.
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