CBD oil has become an extremely popular supplement to treat various health issues in humans. However, many pet parents have wondered if the oil can be used to help their dogs as well. The good news is that many have tried and found that it does, indeed, have some very positive benefits for dogs.
CBD oil is extracted from the cannabis plant. While cannabis is most famous for its intoxicating effects, CBD oil has no psychoactive properties and cannot get you or your pet high.
When ingested and absorbed, CBD oil works synergistically with the body’s endocannabinoid system. This crucial system, found in both humans and dogs, regulates several functions within the body, including activities related to the brain, nervous system, and immune system.
So, if CBD oil does not get your dog buzzed, what can it do? Here are just a few dog health conditions CBD oil can potentially relieve.
Pain Relief
CBD oil can be used to alleviate pain and irritation. It helps relieve discomfort by suppressing pain signals sent from receptors in the nervous system to the brain. In addition, CBD oil is thought to lessen the inflammation that is likely causing the pain in the first place.
A dog suffering pain from a sprain, strain, or after surgery can be given CBD oil to help decrease swelling and inflammation. Chronic pain from ailments such as arthritis and hip dysplasia can potentially be lessened or eliminated with CBD oil as well.
Stress and Anxiety
Dogs can experience stress and anxiety for a variety of reasons. Unfortunately, an anxious dog can express unwanted and unhealthy behaviors, including a refusal to eat, aggression, and excessive panting or licking.
Thankfully, CBD oil seems to provide some relief from anxiety and stress. While it is not yet entirely understood, researchers believe CBD oil somehow helps regulate the release of serotonin in the brain. A serotonin imbalance is believed to cause anxiousness, compulsiveness, and depression in both people and dogs.
Skin Conditions
Compulsive scratching and licking are signs that a dog is suffering from a skin allergy or some other chronic disease. Unfortunately, skin issues, such as allergies and eczema, can be difficult to diagnose and treat.
CBD oil has been shown to help relieve the itching and irritation associated with many skin conditions, especially when applied topically. Some studies have even suggested CBD oil promotes the growth of new, healthy skin.
Cancer
Dogs suffering with cancer are often subjected to treatments with some awful side effects. Vomiting, nausea, and acute pain often accompany traditional cancer treatments. CBD oil can be used to counteract these undesirable symptoms.
While CBD oil is not a cure, researchers think CBD oil can slow the growth of cancerous tumors. Additionally, some CBD oil research suggests cancer cells become more sensitive and susceptible to death after interacting with CBD oil. However, current research has a long way to go to confirm these findings.
While it is important to speak with a veterinarian before adding a supplement to your dog’s diet, CBD oil can be a safe and more natural alternative to traditional prescription medication. The supplement is not known to have any significant side effects and is well tolerated by dogs. With its potential health benefits and positive reviews, CBD oil should be seriously considered for the treatment of many common dog health issues.
