2, Oct 2023
The Lowdown on CBD Oil and Pet Anxiety
It seems anything is open for discussion when it comes to keeping our pets happy. CBD oil is creating waves in pet healthcare.
An increasing number of pet owners are in with this trend. A cannabis market research firm report found that the CBD oil product vategory increased by over 900% in 2019. The upward trend began immediately after the 2018 Farm Bill passed. The new legislation lifted legal restrictions, making it easier for people to sell CBD products. Dog Whisperer Cesar Millan also jumped on the CBD oil product bandwagon.
Here’s the lowdown on CBD oil and its effects on pet anxiety.
What is CBD oil?
CBD oil for pets comes in many forms. They include lotions, capsules, and treats. The full name of CBD is cannabidiol, a compound present in hemp and cannabis, the primary source of marijuana. Commercial CDB oil does not contain THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) that produces the high associated with marijuana.
At any rate, the critical thing to note is that CBD oil will not be the gateway for your pet in any way. The question is, what does it do?
CBD oil use
Pet owners consider using CBD oil to help their dogs overcome health issues like seizures, pain, anxiety, and some skin diseases. Supporters also claim it can increase appetite, work as an anti-cancer agent, suppress nausea, and improve cardiac function.
However, there is no actual study into the efficacy of CBD oil for dogs and other pets, unlike pet wheelchairs. Any research on the topic have such small sample sizes that it produced no definitive conclusion. Scientists concede that cannabinoids, in general, can help keep the body healthy and balanced, but not CBD oil in particular.
Anecdotal evidence alone indicates that CBD oil effectively controls seizures and alleviates neuropathic pain in pets. There is a move to sponsor a study into the effects of CBD oil in treatment-resistant epileptic dogs by the AKC Canine Health Foundation in partnership with the Colorado State University, but that is for the future. Currently, no concrete evidence exists that CBD oil works as claimed in pets.
Those claiming CBD oil’s efficacy say giving a dog the right dose is essential. However, since there is no actual study on this, the basis of any site that provides dose recommendations is more best guess than science. This is a classic chicken-and-egg scenario.
Side effects
The lack of scientific data on the efficacy of CBD oil for pets also includes side effects. However, human studies are a suitable proxy until future data says otherwise.
The potential CBD oil side effects in pets include:
- Blood pressure dips
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Light-headedness
These possible side effects may not be observable to the pet owner, except drowsiness, which would be expected as CBD oil has a calming effect. Increased thirstiness may be due to CBD oil, but may also be due to the weather.
Whether CBD oil works or not, more is not automatically better. It is probably safe in small doses, but you should be ready for adverse reactions. Additionally, the FDA has not published a dosage chart for pets, so the toxic dose is unknown. Vets may not prescribe it for pets, even those in dog wheelchairs. That said, they can educate you about it so you can make an informed decision.
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- By Jenni
14, Aug 2023
Things to Know About Dog Wheelchairs
Are you in a situation where you wonder if your dog needs a wheelchair? A dog wheelchair has many benefits and can give your pooch a new lease on life. Learn more about dog wheelchairs and when you should get one for your dog.
Is a wheelchair necessary?
Dogs are like people in many ways. They grow old and may develop age-related conditions that limit their mobility. They can get into accidents that lay them low for a while, and some diseases affect their ability to move normally. Whatever the case involving loss of mobility, a dog wheelchair typically improves their well-being, so it is a good idea to get one.
When You Should Get One
Here are some issues that may make it necessary to invest in a dog wheelchair.
Arthritis
Older dogs can develop stiffening of the joints because of arthritis. The condition can make it difficult, if not impossible, for them to run or walk normally without pain. While painkillers and supplements such as glucosamine can help, you can mitigate the symptoms of arthritis by keeping your dog on the move.
Physical activity helps the body produce more fluid that lubricates the joints and makes them less painful to move. Yes, it’s a chicken-and-egg situation, but a dog wheelchair can make it less challenging. Because a wheelchair supports some of your dog’s weight, it reduces the impact on the joints. This encourages your dog to move more, which is what you want. The result is less pain and better quality of life.
Intervertebral Disc Diseases (IVDD)
Intervertebral Disc Diseases (IVDD) is common among some breeds, but it can happen to all dogs at any age. Sometimes called a slipped disc, the condition occurs when the spinal discs go out of alignment, rupture, or deteriorate. This results in weakness in the legs, commonly the hind legs.
A dog wheelchair can rehabilitate your dog in the early stages by reducing the pressure on the discs. The wheelchair may become the only way to keep your dog mobile if the condition is more advanced.
Degenerative Myelopathy (DM)
One of the most devastating diseases that cause loss of mobility in dogs is degenerative myelopathy or DM. The condition occurs when the dog’s brain progressively loses its connection to the spinal cord. It is most common among dogs eight years old and above and manifests as wobbly legs and feet dragging.
Unfortunately, DM only gets worse, and there is no treatment. At some point, your dog may lose the ability to walk altogether. A dog wheelchair can improve their mobility and well-being until then. The good news is dogs with DM do not experience pain.
While these are the most common reasons dogs start losing their mobility, they are not the only ones. Consult your vet if you observe your dog that has difficulty moving or walking. They can help you manage the issue by identifying the cause and discussing your treatment options.
The vet will likely ask you if your dog is alert and responsive. If they are, a pet wheelchair is a viable solution to your dog’s mobility issues.
