Every responsible pet owner is concerned about their pet’s health, and when it is about your little best friend, you want to go to all the lengths to make it feel better. You guessed it right! We are talking about dogs.
If your dog was ever sick, you must have also thought about what natural herbs or methods you could use to help it. As a natural remedy, people often choose cannabidiol for themselves, but can it be used for animals, specifically dogs? If yes, how often can I give my dog CBD tincture? Is it legal and safe to be used?
All these questions are perfectly fine, so we have answered them all for you. Just keep reading!
What Is CBD?
A plant known as Cannabis sativa plant has over eighty chemicals, but one of them is known as cannabidiol. The short term for cannabidiol is CBD, and one of its forms is approved for treat epilepsy. Besides CBD, another chemical known as Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol is also present in the hemp plant, but what makes CBD popular is that it is derived from the part of the plant where there is less amount of THC. THC is a psychoactive compound that is responsible for making people high.
Can Dogs Take CBD?
CBD products are marketed in a way that seems safe to be consumed as a food or medicine, but it is not true. The research on this substance is in its initial stage, and so far, The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved it for animal use. However, some anecdotal evidence and studies have shown that it helps treat arthritis, cancer, and stress and relieves discomfort.
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Uses Of CBD Tincture For Dogs
Although it is not approved to be used on animals in any way, according to some studies, it has helped animals overcome their medical issues. Let’s talk about why some dog owners use it.
- Helps with nausea
- Controls seizures
- Improves heart health
- Helps with stress
- Gives comfort in inflammation
- Regulates appetite
- Helps with discomfort
What Is The Right Dosage Amount For Dogs?
Well, when you shop for a cannabidiol product, you will notice that there is already dosage information written on the label. But the seller suggests it, so you should consult a veterinarian rather than follow it.
It was concluded through a study in 2018 that 2 mg per kg of weight of the dogs having osteoarthritis was effective. However, you cannot trust it because no other studies proved it right. Secondly, the study can be biased. So, the best way is to start with the lowest dose and observe how your pet responds to it.
Signs That Your Dog May Benefit From CBD
When administering CBD to your dog, keep an eye on its activity. See if there are any positive or negative signs. If your dog displays any adverse signs, it is better to rush to the veterinarian.
Let’s take an example. If your dog has any issues with running, moving, or jumping and after some days of taking cannabidiol, it is walking or jumping, CBD has turned out to be beneficial for it. On the flip side, if you witness that your dog is drooling, vomiting, leaking urine, cannot balance itself, or has become lethargic, then you should discontinue giving any more CBD. This might have happened because the substance has caused toxicity or it was overdosed.
How Often Can I Give My Dog CBD Tincture?
The frequency of the substance depends on several factors, such as the health issue you are giving CBD for, age, weight, breed, and height of the dog. Therefore, a vet can tell you the gap between each dose and the amount you can give to your dog. However, it can be administered on a daily basis, and in some cases, CBD oil can be administered every eight to twelve hours. Moreover, usually, it can take up to one to two hours to start working. You should be attentive to observe the effects it has on your dog.
How To Choose CBD Tincture For My Dog?
Choosing a cannabidiol product, be it a tincture or oil, requires homework. First, you must consult a veterinarian and later check the brand’s website. Make sure they are displaying their third-party lab test reports. These reports help determine that the product is pesticide and chemical free. Moreover, make sure it is THC-free because it is toxic for dogs and cats. Some of the liked CBD tincture brands are mentioned below.
Zenistic CBD Pet
It is designed for pets and is tested at all steps to ensure your dog gets only the best. Moreover, THC levels are also kept within legal limits.
CBDfx
It is fast acting and has a vegan formula that your dog will love. Furthermore, it is also reviewed for quality, isn’t it great? It also has added Medium-chain triglyceride oil that aids with fast absorption.
Penelope’s Bloom
This full-spectrum formula is also vegan and non-GMO. It is fast acting because of added ingredients like organic coconut oil and chamomile extract.
Try Our Best Quality CBD pets products.
Is CBD Legal, And Can Vets Prescribe It?
It is not unusual for pet owners to ask vets about cannabidiol usage in pets. However, in some states, vets are reluctant to talk about this substance and prescribe it. One of the reasons behind this is that those veterinarians who prescribe it for the pets sometimes have to suffer penalties and may also have their license suspended. Whereas some states have shown some leniency in a way that they don’t penalize those who discuss cannabidiol with the people. For example, in California, a law is passed that says the vets can discuss the effects, side effects, and toxicities of CBD when used for pets without facing penalties.
It is important to know that the states where this substance is legal only allow doctors to prescribe it to humans, but veterinarians are not allowed to prescribe it for animal use. Furthermore, its legality differs from state to state. In some states, cannabidiol from hemp is legal to be used in humans, but in some, it is still a controlled substance.
Conclusion
Now you know the answer to the mainstream query, “How often can I give my dog CBD tincture?”. People give it to their dogs daily, but since it is not approved to be used on animals, there can be some safety issues. It is also a fact that you must not experiment on your pet and consult a vet so you know about the dose and frequency. Still, you have to watch out whether it is beneficial for your little best friend or not.
