We will take a look at CBD oil for pets and should veterinarians offer it to their customers. Veterinarian’s and health and wellness professionals nationwide are becoming curious about the potential benefits of CBD. Are you a veterinarian and interested in the potential benefits of CBD? Below, we answer the most commonly asked questions about what CBD is, how it interacts with animals body, an understanding of the various products, and more.
A Brief Explanation of CBD
CBD (cannabidiol) is a cannabinoid extracted from hemp plants, you may also here it called hemp extract. CBD extracted from hemp does not have high levels of Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), with no risk of THC intoxication. CBD has actually been found to counteract the effects of THC.
CBD interacts through the endocannabinoid system, supporting and regulating every function. The exogenous cannabinoids in CBD mimic the naturally occurring endocannabinoids, anandamide, and 2-ag, both essential to the functioning of the nervous systems. By supplementing endocannabinoid deficiencies, communication and balance are potentially restored to the body.
CBD Works with the Endocannabinoid System
In the early and mid-90’s the endocannabinoid system was discovered, making it a relatively new field of study. The endocannabinoid system is possibly the single-most important system and opened the door for greater breakthroughs on the therapeutic application potential of cannabinoids.
This network of neurotransmitters and receptors play a critical role in the normal functioning of the central and peripheral nervous systems. This complex system is responsible for regulating almost every vital system in the body.
Some of the processes regulated by the endocannabinoid system include: pain perception, stress responses, neuroprotection, metabolism, thermal regulation, learning, memory, muscle movement, immune system responses, circulation, digestive processes and reproductive systems.
The endocannabinoid system regulates so many essential functions, some researchers suspect that endocannabinoid deficiencies may be the cause of many health conditions.
The Potential Benefits of Supplementing the Endocannabinoid System
CBD oil is showing remarkable potential in laboratory and animal studies. Scientists are still learning more about the role that the endocannabinoid system plays. Scientists believe when supplementing the endocannabinoid system and alleviating cannabinoid deficiencies, communication and balance can be restored.
Giving CBD to Pets
When giving CBD to pets, start with a low dose and watch for side effects including nausea, upset tummy, vomiting, incontinence or lethargy. CBD will interact with every pet differently, some will be more sensitive than others and will need smaller doses for the same effect. That is the reason why it is recommend to start with a low dose until the desired benefit is achieved.
CBD does not pose significant risks to pets, and few risks have been identified. The pet’s weight will matter, at least to some extent. Two 50-pound dogs may react differently to the same dose of CBD, but the pets weight will give you a good idea of about how much CBD will be needed before your pet will feel the effects.
Most pet care companies recommend 0.5 to 5 milligrams of CBD for every 10 pounds of body weight. If the effects of the CBD are not noticeable after a week, it’s recommend to the owner to increase the dose every week until the symptoms begin to subside.
Veterinarian’s Considerations When Selecting CBD Products
While browsing a selection of CBD products, you will find full spectrum CBD oil’s and pet treats made from isolate. Each type of product offers distinct advantages.
Full-Spectrum CBD Oils
A full-spectrum product contains the whole plant extracts, including terpenes, phytochemicals, unsaturated hydrocarbons, and the beneficial flavonoids. You will also find: all 20 amino acids, omega-3 fatty acids, B complex vitamins, vitamins C, E and A, potassium, magnesium, calcium, phosphorous, iron and zinc.
When all of these components work together in full spectrum CBD oil products, you have the advantage of something called the “entourage effect”. Full spectrum CBD oil products are more effective option due to the entourage effect.
Pet Treats from CBD Isolates
CBD isolate is the purest form possible of CBD because it has been separated from all of the plant extracts, leaving a product that is 99 percent cannabidiol. Isolate is tasteless and odor free, there is more precise control of the amount of CBD in a product.
How to Add CBD Oil to an Animals Diet
If you think that CBD oil sounds like the right treatment for your customers, then there are different methods for adding CBD to their diet. These include: tinctures, capsules, topicals and treats.
CBD May Benefit Your Patients and Your Practice
Many Veterinarians are curious about the potential benefits of CBD. With the benefits being incredible for animals, more and more people are seeking the treatment for their furry friends. Offering CBD products during your treatment sessions or as a supplement between sessions maybe a valuable asset to your patients and your practice.
CBD is not a medication; it is not intended to treat or cure any medical condition. CBD is a potentially beneficial supplement that may enhance the function of the endocannabinoid system.
The American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association did a study called “Consumers’ Perceptions Of Hemp Products For Animals” wherein they performed an anonymous survey of 632 pet owners who buy hemp products for their animals1.
The peer-review survey came to some telling conclusions. Among others, the study found:
- 77.6% of dog owners indicated they use the product for an illness or condition diagnosed by a veterinarian.
- 90% indicated that they thought hemp products were “very safe.”
We encourage you to continue your investigation and learn all you can about the potential benefits of CBD supplements. Visit us at Leaftonics.com and consider the benefits of high quality CBD products available to your patients through our wholesale program.
Sources:
Kogan, L, Hellyer, P, & Robinson, N. (2016). CONSUMERS’ PERCEPTIONS OF HEMP PRODUCTS FOR ANIMALS
The Healing Vet. (2017). About
