A Guide to CBD for Pets

A Guide to CBD for Pets

Does CBD work for pets?

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is the largest system in the body—for humans and animals! Cannabinoids from hemp interact with these receptors located in the central and peripheral nervous systems and help maintain balance in the body and keep it in a healthy and normal state. Research on the topic of cannabis for pets is still being explored, but here is what we know so far: 

• Dogs in particular are reported to have a higher number of cannabinoid receptors in their brains when compared to humans. This means they are more susceptible to the benefits of CBD, but also more likely to experience THC toxicity. It is very important never to give your pet a hemp or cannabis product intended for human consumption.

An article by Caroline Coile, PhD, published in AKC Family Dog Magazine gives anecdotal evidence of CBD improving various ailments in dogs, from itching to arthritis pain to severe anxiety, when prescribed drugs like Trazodone did not. And yes, CBD can work for cats, too!

Our team at Emerald Heart has researched various professional studies over the years and combined this knowledge with years of experience giving CBD to our pets and hearing from dozens of customers as well. This is why we feel confident recommending CBD to family, friends, and customers alike.

How do I know which product is best for my pet?

There are hundreds of CBD products for pets, but there is little regulation in place to ensure their safety. As a rule of thumb, NEVER give your pet an edible product that is intended for human consumption, as they may include ingredients such as xylitol that can be toxic to animals.

The two most popular ways to give your pets CBD are treats and oil droppers. While treats are convenient for most people, the oil is a great option for drizzling onto your pet’s food at mealtime. If you already have a certain treat that your pet likes, it’s just as easy to dispense a drop or two of the oil onto the treat.

As far as treats that already have CBD in them, we offer 3 different brands of treats to choose from. Your choice may vary depending on the quantity and the milligram that you choose to purchase starting out. We even have trial size packs. Once you know that CBD works for your pet, you may choose to purchase a higher quantity of treats.

Choosing products that include terpenes or other plant molecules is important, as CBD has been shown to work better in conjunction with these rather than isolated. CBD products containing less than 0.3% THC have generally been accepted as safe for dogs. However, please consult with your veterinarian before implementing new supplements into your pet’s routine, especially if they are on any medication, as the main concern is the possible interaction with prescribed drugs.

How Much CBD should I give my dog?

It is best to start small when introducing CBD to your pet, and work upward according to your pet’s needs. An easy general rule of thumb is at least 1-2mg per 10lbs of dog weight, given twice daily. For example, a 30lb dog should receive at least 3mg of CBD (2x per day). It is generally safe to give up to 5mg per 10lbs, and the amount you choose to give may be adjusted depending on the severity of the issue. 

A dog with separation anxiety, for example, may receive 1mg/10lbs about an hour before you leave the house. That same dog may need 3mg/10lbs to remain calm during a thunderstorm. The same goes for pain. We give our older dog with arthritis at least 2mg/10lbs daily, but he requires 3mg/10lbs during the winter months when his arthritis is worse.

Are there any side effects of giving my dog CBD?

Fortunately, CBD itself is not toxic to dogs. The most common side effect of too much CBD is stomach upset, dry mouth, and drowsiness. The worst part of giving your dog too much CBD is generally how much it would cost to maintain. It does not have to be expensive to give your dog CBD. We have a variety of solutions to offer you and your pet. Shop our selection online or come to the store! One of our knowledgeable team members will be happy to talk to you about your pet and their needs, and help you find a solution that works for you and your pet.

Sources:

Gyles C. Marijuana for pets? Can Vet J. 2016 Dec;57(12):1215-1218. PMID: 27928166; PMCID: PMC5109620.