Is it safe to give dogs CBD oil? That was the question I asked my friend when he told me that he started administering CBD oil to his arthritic 14 year old adorable golden retriever. This topic has been gaining popularity as a potential treatment option for a wide range of conditions such as anxiety, insomnia and chronic pain including arthritis in canines. As usual, this conversation tickled my brain and I decided to research more on this growing trend. So, let’s get right into it.
What is CBD oil?
CBD oil is a type of oil that is derived from the cannabis plant. CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a natural compound found in the cannabis plant that has been shown to have potential therapeutic benefits. CBD oil is made by extracting CBD from the plant and then diluting it with a carrier oil, such as hemp seed oil or coconut oil.
There is a difference between CBD oil and marijuana, which is another cannabis plant variety that contains high levels of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), a psychoactive compound that produces a “high” sensation. CBD oil, on the other hand, does not contain significant levels of THC and is not psychoactive.
CBD oil has gained popularity in recent years due to its potential health benefits. It has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, and anxiety-reducing effects, among others. It is available in various forms, including oils, tinctures, capsules, gummies, and topical creams.
Arthritis in Dogs
Arthritis is a common and painful condition that can affect pups of all ages and breeds. In fact, according to the American Kennel Club, approximately one in four dogs will develop arthritis in their lifetime. It is a degenerative disease that causes inflammation and stiffness in the joints, making it difficult for pups to move around comfortably. While arthritis cannot be cured, there are various treatments available to manage the symptoms and improve your pup’s quality of life.
Common signs of arthritis in pups include limping, difficulty standing or lying down, reluctance to walk or exercise, and decreased activity levels. If you suspect your pup may be suffering from arthritis, it is recommended to take them to the veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Treatment options may include medication, weight management, exercise, physical therapy, and supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin. In recent years, CBD oil has also gained popularity as a potential treatment for arthritis in pups, with some studies suggesting that it can help reduce pain and inflammation.
So, if you suspect your pup may be suffering from arthritis, please consult with your veterinarian and explore all available treatment options to improve their quality of life. Regular veterinary check-ups and early intervention can help slow the progression of arthritis and improve your pup’s comfort and mobility.
Signs And Symptoms Of Arthritis in Dogs
Here is a list of the top 10 common symptoms of arthritis seen in dogs. If you notice any of these symptoms in your pup, please consult with a veterinarian to develop an appropriate treatment plan.
- Difficulty moving or walking
- Stiffness, especially after rest or exercise
- Limping or favoring one leg over another
- Reluctance to play or exercise
- Decreased activity level or lethargy
- Changes in behavior or mood, such as irritability or aggression
- Decreased range of motion
- Joint swelling or tenderness
- Warmth or sensitivity around the affected joint
- Licking or biting at the affected joint.
Some pups may not show obvious signs of arthritis until the condition has progressed, so it is good practice to have regular check-ups with a veterinarian to catch any issues early on.
Read more: 10 Signs That Your Dog Is Dehydrated
Research on CBD Oil on Dogs Arthritis
Research on the use of CBD oil for treating arthritis in dogs is still in its early stages. However, some studies have indicated that CBD has the potential to reduce pain and inflammation in pups with arthritis.
One study conducted by the American College of Veterinary Surgeons found that pups treated with CBD oil experienced a significant reduction in pain and an increase in activity level. The study also found that CBD was well-tolerated by canines, with no significant adverse effects reported.
Research also suggests that CBD may help reduce inflammation, alleviate pain, and improve mobility in pups with arthritis. In 2018, a study conducted by the Colorado State University found that the results showed that there was a significant reduction in arthritic pain with no observable side effect measured by the Canine Brief Pain Inventory and Hudson activity scores.
Another clinical study conducted by the researchers at Cornell University showed that pups that were fed 2mg/kg of cannabidiol (CBD) oil twice daily for a month saw a significant improvement in pain, relief and quality of life as compared to the pups that were given placebo oil.
In another study, researchers found that administering 62 mg/day of topical gel onto the affected areas was effective for arthritic rats to experience a significant reduction in joint swelling and improvement in the thickening of the synovial membrane in a dose-dependent manner. In simple terms, this means that CBD oil seems to be able to reduce joint swelling and encourage the regeneration of the synovial membrane.
While more research is needed to fully understand the effects of CBD oil on pups with arthritis, early studies show promising results. As I dug deeper, besides the research journals I’ve found, there are countless anecdotal stories shared from people in forums and established veterinary websites.
Anecdotal Stories
One of such notable stories is from Dr Powers, the chairman of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Council on Biologic and Therapeutic Agents, and owner of Veterinary Clinics North has tried CBD oil on his St.Bernard who suffers from arthritis and severe anxiety. According to him, he tried out almost all available treatments for those condition but found they did not help at all. So, he resorted to hemp CBD oil and chews and saw significant improvement and reduction in pain and anxiety.
Another promising and positive story is from Casara Andre, founder and director of Veterinary Cannabis Education and Consulting. She is an advocate for CBD oil and has tested it out on her cat Mattie who was troubled with many issues such as kidney problems, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and arthritis. She fed Mattie CBD oil for 6 weeks and noticed a small improvement in her appetite. And when she started adding a higher dose of CBD to THC, that was when she saw a huge improvement in Mattie’s health and appetite. And more importantly, this added 4 more extra years to Mattie’s life. And isn’t that what matters the most to have our beloved fur kids with us just for a few more years.
So from the several research journals that I read so far, it seems that these studies results have been congruent with the anecdotal reports of CBD oil’s benefits. However, note that CBD oil should not replace traditional treatments prescribed by a veterinarian for arthritis in pups. However, it may be used in conjunction with other treatments to help manage pain and inflammation. If you’re considering using CBD oil for your pup’s arthritis, do consult with a veterinarian to determine the appropriate dosage and ensure it is safe for your pup.
Read more: Importance of Vitamin D in Dogs
Will My Dog Get High On CBD Oil?
It is a plain no, CBD (cannabidiol) will not make your pup high. This is because CBD is a non-psychoactive compound, unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which is the main psychoactive compound in marijuana. CBD is derived from hemp plants, which contain very low levels of THC. In fact, in order to be legally sold as a CBD product, it must contain less than 0.3% THC.
While CBD may have some mild calming or relaxing effects, it does not produce the euphoric “high” associated with marijuana use. So, you can rest assured that giving your pup CBD will not cause them to feel intoxicated or impaired in any way. However, do your due diligence and use high-quality, third-party tested CBD products that contain only CBD and do not contain any harmful contaminants. It is also recommended to consult with your veterinarian before giving your pup any CBD products to ensure their safety and proper dosage.
How Long Does CBD Oil Take To Work For Arthritis In Pups?
The time it takes for CBD oil to work for arthritis in pups can vary depending on several factors, including the severity of the condition, the dosage of CBD, and the form of CBD oil used. In general, it may take a few days to a few weeks to see noticeable improvements in your pup’s arthritis symptoms.
CBD oil can be administered to pups in various forms, such as tinctures, capsules, or treats. Tinctures are often the preferred method as they allow for precise dosing and can be easily added to your pup’s food or water. The onset of effects may vary depending on the method of administration, with tinctures typically taking effect within 15-45 minutes.
It must be emphasised that CBD oil is not a cure for arthritis in pups, and its effectiveness may vary from pup to pup. It is recommended to start with a low dosage and gradually increase as needed while monitoring your pup’s response. Additionally, it is important to use high-quality, third-party tested CBD products and to consult with your veterinarian before giving your pup any CBD products to ensure their safety and proper dosage.
Managing Arthritic Pain
Due to the increasing number of dogs experiencing mobility issues, joint pain, and arthritis as they age, the demand for treatment options is on the rise. The most effective approach to managing canine arthritis is by utilising a strategy that encompasses multiple areas.
Develop a Comprehensive Treatment Plan
The first step in managing your dog’s arthritis is to work with your veterinarian to develop a comprehensive treatment plan. This may include a combination of medication, supplements, exercise, and weight management. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are often prescribed to manage pain and inflammation in arthritic dogs. Work with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate dosage and monitor your dog for any potential side effects.
Low Impact Exercise
In addition to medication, regular low-impact exercise is crucial for maintaining your dog’s mobility and building muscle strength. Walking, swimming, and underwater treadmill use are all excellent options. Physical therapy can also be beneficial for dogs with arthritis, as it can help improve flexibility and range of motion.
Maintaining an ideal weight and body condition is also vital for managing arthritis. Excess weight can put added pressure on your dog’s joints, exacerbating pain and inflammation. Your veterinarian can help you determine the appropriate diet and portion sizes for your dogs.
Vitamins and Supplements
Supplements such as Omega-3 fatty acids and glucosamine can also be helpful in managing arthritis in dogs. These supplements can help reduce inflammation and support joint health. Do your homework and choose high-quality supplements and work with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate dosage.
CBD supplements
Finally, CBD supplements containing anti-inflammatory properties may provide additional relief for arthritic dogs. While research on the benefits of CBD for animals is limited, based on the research journals data, there is evidence to suggest that it can reduce pain and inflammation, leading to increased mobility. However, this should not be intended to be the primary approach to treating or managing the arthritic pain.
If you are considering CBD for your pup, here is a tip: look for pet-specific products made from Industrial Hemp. And, I cannot stress this enough- always talk to your veterinary team whenever starting any new treatment, supplement, or medication with your dog.
Final Thoughts
Early studies show promising results of CBD oil reducing joint swelling and pain and anecdotal stories shared across the internet have agreed with the studies result. While more research is needed to fully understand how CBD oil works in pups with arthritis, it is crucial to consult with a veterinarian before starting any new treatment for your pup’s arthritis.