The medicinal plant cannabis for dogs

Many dog owners are turning to cannabis as a popular medicinal aid to assist their pets with various health issues, spanning from anxiety and arthritis to cancer.

But are dogs really indulging in marijuana? Not quite. The cannabis administered to dogs is hemp, distinct from marijuana.

Hemp was once prohibited in numerous countries due to its association with other cannabis variants. Nowadays, hemp-based products like soaps, lotions, protein powders, and beverages such as hempseed milk are readily available in local grocery stores.

However, the hemp beneficial for your dog’s health isn’t the type found on supermarket shelves. We’re referring to the holistic cannabis herb.

Comparing hemp and marijuana

Both marijuana and hemp are derived from the Cannabis sativa plant (though marijuana also originates from another member of the Cannabis family, Cannabis indica).

Within the cannabis plant, there are over 60 chemical compounds known as cannabinoids. Among these, the primary ones are cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). CBDs possess therapeutic properties, while THC is the compound responsible for the psychoactive “high.”

Marijuana typically contains THC levels ranging between 10 and 15 percent, whereas hemp is mandated to maintain a THC content of 0.3 percent or lower. At this threshold, cannabis lacks any intoxicating impact on both humans and dogs.

Moreover, hemp boasts higher concentrations of CBD, the component responsible for its therapeutic benefits.

Functions of CBD

Within the cannabis plant, various compounds exist, including CBD, phytocannabinoids, terpenoids, and flavonoids. Humans and other mammals possess specific cannabinoid receptor sites, predominantly located in the brain and central nervous system, as well as in peripheral organs, especially immune cells. Collectively, these sites constitute the endocannabinoid system.

Research indicates that numerous cannabinoids exhibit anti-inflammatory effects, contributing to relief from pain, tumors, seizures, muscle spasms, skin conditions, appetite stimulation, aggression, anxiety, and neurological disorders.

The benefits of CBD hemp for your dog

CBD hemp proves beneficial for both chronic and acute diseases. In cases of chronic conditions, it aids in addressing arthritis, compromised immune systems, stress responses, aggression, and digestive issues. Ongoing studies also explore the impact of CBD on Type 1 diabetes, organ diseases, and cancer.

Veterinarians are increasingly recognizing the utility of CBD hemp in treating acute ailments, such as sprains, strains, torn ligaments, bone breaks, and post-operative care to minimize swelling, pain, and stiffness.

For dogs undergoing conventional drug treatments for these conditions, incorporating CBD hemp may allow for lower drug doses while achieving therapeutic effects. Given the potential side effects of conventional medicines, this presents a valuable advantage of CBD.

Is CBD safe for dogs and other pets?

Extensive research on the safety and potential adverse effects of using medicinal cannabis for pets remains limited. While a study demonstrated the tolerability of hemp-derived CBD over a 12-week period, it’s crucial to note that cats metabolize CBD differently compared to dogs. Additionally, the lack of comprehensive research in this domain means there’s insufficient data to conclusively confirm the efficacy or safety of CBD for pets at this time.

Is CBD for Pets Identical to CBD for Humans?

Ensuring that medicinal cannabis for pets is devoid of any ingredients potentially toxic to animals is crucial. Dogs, for instance, exhibit heightened sensitivity to THC. Nevertheless, in specific cases, minimal amounts of THC in combination with CBD might offer benefits to dogs. This underscores the importance of conducting any trials of medicinal cannabis for pets under the guidance and consultation of a veterinarian.

Is CBD quick to act?

Similar to most herbal remedies, immediate effects might not be noticeable for most conditions. Patience is key. While your dog might experience some pain relief within a few hours, improvements in symptoms like inflammation may take a few days to become evident.