CBD for Pets
CBD oil is becoming the new hype and for a good reason! CBD is known as hemp extract, cannabis oil, and Cannabidiol (CBD). And it’s the most prominent cannabinoid component found in the hemp plant (around 40%).
Hemp vs. THC
Hemp is different than marijuana since it has a lower amount of THC, which is the compound that makes one feel "high." While both marijuana and hemp are part of the cannabis plant family, hemp has less than 0.3% THC but many other medical compounds. Full hemp extract products contain less than 0.3% THC, whereas most cannabis plants have anywhere from 5-20% THC. The THC in the hemp plant is so minimal that there is no psychoactive effect. CBD is the main compound in the hemp plant, and TCH is almost fictitious.
Benefits
Clinical studies from Colorado State University show that full-spectrum CBD is safe, non-addictive, and impossible to overdose with no harmful side effects.
CBD can be used for reducing inflammation, mild anxiety, alleviate cancer-related & allergy symptoms, anti-tumor effects, and so much more!
***Although CBD can help with mild anxiety, it should never be used as a bandaid for serious behavioral problems. If your dog is having severe behavior modification issues, please contact a professional and experienced trainer.
A study found that people treated with CBD have a significant reduction in cancer-related symptoms. CBD also can help reduce nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy. There have also been more test-tube studies on animals that have highlighted CBD’s anti-cancer properties! A study found that concentrated CBD caused cell death of human breast cancer cells and slowed down the spread of aggressive breast cancer in mice.
CBD has also been widely researched for its possibility to treat epilepsy. The American Epilepsy Society states that cannabidiol studies offer significant hope in treating the seizure disorder. CBD is effective in aiding this ailment due to its anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties! CBD is also being researched to help with other neurological dieases such as Parkinson’s Disease and Alzheimer’s disease.
CBD also prevents mast cells from releasing histamines. Mast cells are what cause inflammation ,also known as allergic reactions. This causes the typical symptoms we recognize as sneezing, watery eyes, runny nose, etc. A study from 2013 shwed that CBD aided in reducing inflammation in the guinea pig’s airways due to food allergies.
What To Look For
With so many CBD products out on the market, it can be challenging to know what to buy. Here are a few things I keep in mind when shopping for a quality CBD oil…
#1 Full Hemp Extract ~ Look for products labeled and use Full Hemp Extract, sustainably grown in the US, and contains detectable amounts of THC (0.3 percent or less according to the Farm Bill). Isolates or synthetic cannabinoids do not have an array of essential vitamins & minerals, fatty acids, protein, chlorophyll, fiber, flavonoids, and terpenes like broad-spectrum do.
#2 Certificate of Analysis (COA) ~ The product should have a COA made by a third party laboratory that is up to date and matches the batch #. The COA should be easy to find either on the product or the manufacturer's website. This will ensure that the CBD is full-spectrum with the acceptable amount of THC and doesn't contain any herbicides, pesticides, fertilizers, metals, or chemicals.
#3 CO2 Extraction ~ The product should be extracted by using CO2 extraction to capture the wealthiest compounds of the plant (cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids). It's best to avoid products that use butane or ethanol for extraction.
#4 Bioavailability & Absorption Rate ~ Administering the tincture sublingually (via gums) is by far the most effective and efficient way to get the medicine into the bloodstream. Capsules and treats are not nearly as effective. MCT, coconut oil, and hemp seed oil will improve the absorption rate. Emulsification also impacts bioavailability by reducing the molecule size, causing the dose to be absorbed into the bloodstream quicker.
#5 Ingredients ~ Always double-check the ingredients on the manufacturer's website, in marketing literature, and on the product packaging to ensure there are no unnecessary or potentially harmful ingredients added. Elements to avoid include artificial flavoring, sweeteners such as xylitol or stevia, preservatives, and any type of marine oil.
CBD is an excellent addition to your dog's life to help with overall health & longevity to be closer to creating the (almost) forever pet!
