Dogs are lovable, protective, and truly amazing animals. They help owners deal with loneliness, stress, and anxiety, among other issues. Hence, as a dog owner, it is equally vital to take care of their health. A healthy dog will lead a happy, carefree, and long life.
Among other things, CBD oil for dogs is being recommended as an effective remedy to help them deal with chronic health problems. In addition, research indicates that it can boost appetite and reduce anxiety to a considerable extent.
CBD oil, or cannabidiol oil, is an extract from the popular cannabis plant, a type that is found naturally in hemp or marijuana plants, minus the THC properties that are known to cause psychoactive reactions in users. That’s one of the key reasons it is medically beneficial to people and pets alike.
Which ailments can CBD oil help treat in dogs?
Studies are still being conducted about the various ways CBD oil can help pets. That being said, below are some of the most significant benefits this drug can offer ailing dogs.
Help fight cancer
Tragically, several adult dogs can get cancer at some point in their life. The dreaded disease is an intense and highly dangerous challenge, especially in dogs. As a result, researchers are constantly trying to find drugs that can fight the pain and nausea that cancer can cause.
Studies on people and animals have concluded that CBD can be effective in treating cancer. It can stop the progression of several cancers such as prostate, thyroid, leukemia, and colon cancer. It can also inhibit tumor growth. This is promising news for pet owners with dogs suffering from cancer.
CBD oil for dogs with epilepsy
Canine epilepsy is a severe illness and can cause severe seizures in dogs. Unfortunately, anticonvulsant epilepsy medication like diazepam, potassium bromide, or phenobarbital can cause strong side effects in dogs. And even with medication, a large number of dogs continue to experience seizures.
Researchers claim CBD can reduce seizure frequency and severity in dogs because of its reaction to the endocannabinoid system. Essentially, seizures occur due to abnormal electrical charges of neurons. CBD can bind to receptors in the nervous system, impacting the rate of episodes.
Anti-inflammatory properties
Even dogs can suffer from immune-mediated diseases such as septic shocks, multiple sclerosis, arthritis, and diabetes, among other things. Studies show that CBD can cause apoptosis in the immune cells, acting as an effective anti-inflammatory therapy.
It can alleviate inflammatory responses in the body and protect from chronic, painful inflammation. Although further studies are ongoing, the results have been promising so far.
Help dogs with arthritis
Osteoarthritis is an excruciating conditiosn in dogs. It can cause chronic joint pains and hinder their movements, resulting in bone and soft tissue deterioration.
Research shows that CBD oil has a positive effect on dogs with arthritis. It has anti-inflammatory properties known to reduce swelling and pain in the joints. It is also recommended to treat torn ligaments, elbow and hip dysplasia, and sprains in dogs.
While some research has been conducted on the above medical uses of CBD oil for dogs, studies are still underway to see if it can alleviate stress and improve their skin or coat.