The world can be full of frightening things for our dogs. Thunderstorms, fireworks, or even being left alone can be scary for our beloved companions. Sadly, a dog’s fear can express itself through many unhealthy and heartbreaking behaviors such as shaking, whimpering, panting, and pacing.
Not knowing what else to do, pet parents looking for relief for their pet usually turn to prescription medications that come with a host of undesirable side effects. Recently, however, many pet owners have discovered that CBD oil can be an alternative to traditional treatment.
CBD oil is extracted from the cannabis plant. In the past few years, CBD oil has become an extremely popular supplement for the relief of many health conditions, including chronic pain, allergies, and anxiety. While it is often confused with marijuana, CBD oil does not have psychoactive compounds and cannot get a dog high.
Just like humans, dogs have an endocannabinoid system, which is responsible for regulating several functions within the body. In a very natural way, CBD oil interacts and seemingly helps the endocannabinoid system work more efficiently.
Specifically, the endocannabinoid system helps the brain communicate with the nervous system using a multitude of receptors. When the brain gets certain environmental signals, it will release serotonin, a chemical linked to contentment and calmness.
Research suggests CBD oil enhances and improves the communication between receptors and the brain, which leads to a more effectual release of serotonin when it is needed. After a short time using the supplement, pet parents find a calmer and more relaxed dog without the side effects typically associated with traditional medication.
Applying CBD oil directly to a dog’s tongue is probably the easiest way to give the supplement. However, if your pet is resistant to that method, placing a few drops in your dog’s food or water will also work. As an alternative, pet treats infused with CBD oil are also widely available.
Finding a good quality CBD oil is imperative as not all are created equal. Low quality products may not be as effective and could even include toxic ingredients.
Lower quality CBD oil can sometimes be extracted from cannabis plants containing high levels of THC, the chemical responsible for the infamous psychoactive effects. THC can be lethal to animals. CBD oil made from organic plants with less than 0.03 percent THC is crucial in selecting a product.
Also important is the process used to extract the oil. Look for a CBD oil processed using pharmaceutical grade ethanol as this grain alcohol can safely remove toxins without damaging the structure of the oil. Some companies go the cheap route and process using butane and hexane, two petroleum-based solvents that are poisonous.
One clear indicator of quality CBD oil is the price. Although this is not always the case, the higher the price, the better the product. Paying around $50 would be in the right range for a superior product.
In addition to anxiety relief, CBD oil may help with a variety of other dog health issues, such as joint pain and skin allergies. While it is generally accepted as well-tolerated and safe for dogs, it is best to speak with a veterinarian before adding CBD oil to a pet’s daily regimen.
