Should I Give My Pet CBD?

CBD for pets? Many people ask this question, and we are happy to answer! Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of the most active compounds found in the cannabis plant that has been scientifically proven to have acute balancing and healing effects on all mammals in the animal kingdom.  This is a great discovery, and not surprisingly, many pet owners are finding success in treating a broad spectrum of behavioral and medical issues including: arthritis, muscle spasm, anxieties, seizures, obsessions, neurological and digestive disorders, past traumas, mood, memory, cancer pain, and recovery from surgery or other illnesses. So how does one plant treat all of these problems?

CBD Receptors

The two types of endocannabinoid receptors that have been discovered in mammals are the CBD 1 and CBD2 receptors. CB1 receptors are primarily found in the brain, glands, organs, and nervous system—while CBD2 receptors are mainly located in the immune systems regulatory cells. Many tissues contain both CBD1 and CBD2 receptors, which is why CBD oil is so effective in treating a host of ailments. Here is a great study on Cannabinoids and Animal Physiology if you need more info.

Endocannabinoid System

One of the main duties of the endocannabinoid system is controlling systemic inflammation via up or down regulation of the immune response. Overactive immune responses in the body manifests as allergies or auto-immune problems, and an underactive immune response in the body can trigger the proliferation of cancer cells or allow infections to go unchecked—causing it spread or worsen. 

Safety Tips

While both marijuana and hemp are classified as cannabis, there are some key differences to be aware of. Hemp contains virtually zero THC— but it has high levels of CBD, whereas recreational marijuana is high in both THC and CBD. 

Since hemp is non-psychoactive, it will not make your pet high and does not have any negative side effects, making it completely safe for animal consumption and impossible to overdose on. Just make sure you are using CBD that doesn’t contain THC. 

DO NOT FEED YOUR PET EDIBLES. ESPECIALLY BROWNIES OR ITEMS CONTAINING CHOCOLATE.

Dosing Recommendations

There are several new ways to consume CBD including extracts that can be added to food, treats, directly by mouth, rubbed into the skin, ears, or paws; you can also purchase CBD capsules, biscuits, and ointments. 

Dosing varies from one situation to the next, so it may require a bit of experimentation to determine the perfect amount. The standard suggested starting dose is 1 mg-5mg for every 10 pounds. 

We recommend starting with dosing on the low end of the suggested range, with successful dosages taking effect within 30 minutes. If you don’t notice any improvements or changes within an hour, slowly increase the dosage— keeping in mind improvements can sometimes take more than one treatment. 

For pain management, give approximately every 6-8 hours. To break behavior patterns, give once or twice a day at dosages you notice improvements or changes. Remember, there is no toxicity associated with CBD, so there is no need to worry about an overdose, but always, make sure you get CBD products from a professional, well reviewed dispensary or manufacturer to ensure quality, potency and safety. 

Informative Video on CBD for Pets

For more information check out this great video about using CBD for pets—thank you CBD School for making a wonderfully informative video! 

https://youtu.be/5i5cTXFFqD8

Breckenridge Organic Therapy carries a variety of cannabis products that are naturally sourced and high quality. Feel free to stop by or contact us with any questions you may have and we will be happy to help!