February 18, 2019
We all know that CBD can take the edge off without the high for us humans, but it may do the same thing for your anxiety-ridden dog.
This relatively new pet wellness trend is riding on the heels of CBD oil's reported anti-inflammatory and anti-anxiety benefits for humans. While its benefits for humans are starting to become more widely known and accepted, usage for pets is something a bit more elusive.
Scientists are starting to understand how it affects humans, but there are no formal studies on how CBD affects pets. However, there is a number of anecdotal evidence from pet owners who have noticed a difference in their animal's behavior. From becoming friendlier and less anxious to helping with their pet's epilepsy, it seems, based on these anecdotes, that CBD may be able to help your pet in a similar way it could help you.
The American Veterinary Medicine Association does discuss some incidences of toxicosis, though most cases were due in part to animals eating CBD or cannabis edibles that contained ingredients known to be unhealthy for dogs, such as chocolate, raisins, or xylitol.
We do know that humans have an endocannabinoid system, and that dogs have an even more complex endocannabinoid system with more receptors. This prevalence of receptors means they feel the effects of these substances more, which is why it’s important to give them a lower dose.
So, how much should you give your pet? According to Dr. Cornelia Wagner of Hawthorne Veterinary Clinic in Portland, Oregon pets can safely consume CBD as long as you start on a very small dosage, around .05 mg/day before slowly moving up to 1 mg per day. Too much CBD can cause drowsiness. Wagner also recommends CBD over cannabis as high amounts of THC can be problematic.
Now that we know the facts, what are the best options for your pet? CBD oil is the most common and easiest way to give your pet a sense of calm. Most companies have a 'pet tincture' that will typically have - and should have - a lower dosage designed for animals. Philly CBD brand, Anthology, has a 125 mg/15 ml pet tincture for $25. If you're going to use the oil, under the tongue is the best way to take it, but you can also mix the oil into the dog's food.
If you want to give your dog more of a treat, you can also purchase CBD edibles for pets. Make sure whatever you're buying is organic and tells you how much CBD is in the product so you can safely give your pet the right dosage. And as with anything, it's important to check with your veterinarian before giving your pet CBD products.
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