CBD for Pets

All things about CBD and your pets. What CBD can help with and how to dose your furry friend with CBD

Do Animals Have Endocannabinoid Systems?

Posted on by TJ

The endocannabinoid system, shortened to ECS, is a crucial biological system that helps us humans maintain balance and homeostasis in our bodies. It’s also why people can benefit from CBD supplements. Plenty of folks have success giving their cats and dogs CBD, so the question is: Do animals also have endocannabinoid systems? 

In this post, we’ll talk about the endocannabinoid system in various mammals— specifically cats and dogs. 

Key Takeaways:

  1. Most animals do have endocannabinoid systems. All vertebrates and a good number of invertebrates evolved to have one. 
  2. Each animal’s ECS functions differently and will react to external cannabinoids differently. 
  3. Because they have endocannabinoid systems, cats and dogs can benefit from CBD supplements.

What is the Endocannabinoid System (ECS)?

Let’s first understand what the endocannabinoid system is. The ECS is a body-wide network of three main components: 

  1. Endocannabinoids are naturally occurring molecules similar to CBD but produced by the body.
  2. Receptors are found throughout the body, and there are two main types: CB1 and CB2. CB1 receptors are primarily located in the brain and central nervous system, while CB2 receptors are more common in the immune system and peripheral organs.
  3. Enzymes break down endocannabinoids once they’ve fulfilled their role in the body.

The ECS’s primary function is to regulate various physiological processes, including appetite, pain sensation, mood, and immune response. 

Evolution of the Endocannabinoid System in Animals

The ECS evolved over hundreds of millions of years and is present in many animal species. Some of the earliest organisms we’ve identified with ECSs are Sea Slugs, meaning the system predates vertebrates and evolved through various species over time. The fact that the ECS is so widespread highlights its essential role in the biology of most living creatures.

Do Cats Have an Endocannabinoid System?

Yes, cats have an endocannabinoid system. In cats, the ECS is essential for regulating pain, appetite, and mood. Some health issues in cats can be linked to an imbalanced ECS. Conditions like anxiety, arthritis, and excess inflammation may be influenced by ECS imbalances in your feline friend. 

Some cat owners and veterinarians use CBD products to help treat some of the conditions mentioned above. More research is needed before CBD becomes a mainstream supplement for cats, but anecdotal evidence is promising! 

Do Dogs Have an Endocannabinoid System?

Dogs also have endocannabinoid systems. Like other mammals, the ECS in our canine friends plays a significant role in regulating various bodily functions. Many dog owners report improvements in their pups’ anxiety levels, pain levels, and mobility when using CBD products.

Some studies suggest CBD can be beneficial for dogs. However, it’s important to note that dogs may be more sensitive to THC, which, at higher levels, can be toxic to them. Dog owners should use products specifically formulated for pets and consult a veterinarian before giving their pets any full-spectrum CBD products. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Do all mammals have an endocannabinoid system?

Yes, all mammals, including humans, cats, and dogs, have an endocannabinoid system that plays a crucial role in regulating many of their body’s functions.

Can I give my pet CBD?

While CBD may benefit pets, it is essential to consult a veterinarian before giving any CBD products to your pet. Use products designed for pets. You may be able to give your larger animals products designed for humans, but again, please get your vet’s opinion first. 

Is THC safe for animals?

No, THC can be harmful to pets, especially dogs. It’s important to avoid giving animals products containing THC.

What are the benefits of CBD for pets?

CBD may help with pain relief, anxiety reduction, and inflammation control in pets, but research is ongoing.

The Growing Trend of Vets Prescribing CBD for Pets

Posted on by TJ

Key Takeaways

  1. CBD is an all-natural alternative that you may want to consider if you don’t want to put your pet on harsh pharmaceuticals. 
  2. On your next visit, talk to your vet about CBD and get their opinion about whether or not they think CBD may be able to help your pet. 
  3. Be sure to give your pet only high-quality CBD products. Look for testing documents to back up your product’s purity. 

The shift towards integrating CBD and hemp-based products into a holistic veterinary practice is happening all over the country. In this blog, we’ll cover the reasons more vets are recommending CBD, the conditions that CBD may be able to help with, and what you should keep in mind before you give your pet CBD. 

Understanding CBD and Its Benefits

CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis and hemp plants. Unlike THC, which can cause THC toxicity in your four-legged friend, CBD interacts with your pet’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) to improve their overall wellness. In some cases, CBD may even manage some of the symptoms of some ailments. 

CBD’s Health Benefits For Pets

In animals, we believe that CBD can help with:

  • Pain Management: We believe that CBD can help reduce inflammation in our animals. This, in turn, helps our pets manage their pain better. A study by Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine found that dogs suffering from osteoarthritis showed fewer signs of being in pain after using CBD.1 
  • Managing Anxiety: Many pets experience separation anxiety (and it only got worse when we were all home during COVID.) Many dog owners especially use CBD to help their pups relax while they’re crated or away at work.
  • Seizure Management: While the FDA hasn’t officially approved CBD for pet medications, more than a few studies have found that CBD can help reduce the intensity and frequency of seizures in dogs.2, 3 
  • Better Appetite: Pets can lose their appetite for any number of reasons, including stress, pain, and illness. It’s heartbreaking to see our pets not eat. CBD can help with those root causes and help our pets regain their appetite.

Why Vets Are Prescribing CBD

Even though some veterinarians dig their heels on cannabis-derived approaches to medicine, more and more vets are turning to CBD for several reasons. 

  • Holistic Approach: Many pet owners are looking and asking for natural alternatives to traditional pharmaceuticals. Traditional medications can have some severe side effects, while CBD, as far as we know, only has mild side effects.
  • Anecdotal Evidence: Many pet owners have used CBD and seen significant improvement in their pets’ conditions. So many, in fact, that we know have written testimonials about how successfully CBD oil is improving our pets’ quality of life. The results are hard to ignore.
  • Research: Current studies on CBD’s benefits for pets are promising. So much so that even more conservative vets are beginning to recommend it for their patients.
  • Regulatory Changes: CBD rules and regulations are always in flux. But as restrictions relax, more Vets are beginning to feel comfortable prescribing CBD.

If Your Specific Vet Isn’t Prescribing CBD…

If you’re specific veterinarian won’t prescribe CBD, even if you’ve asked, ask them about their hesitation. Veterinarians are doctors and they may have seen some studies that highlight certain risks in prescribing CBD. Or they may not be up to date on the current research.

Regardless of their answer, your pet’s care is ultimately up to you. If you do decide to start your pet on a CBD regimen, there are some things you should consider first.

What Pet Owners Should Consider

If you’re considering CBD for your pet, here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Choose Quality Products: When you’re looking for CBD for your pets, ask yourself the following questions.
    1. Is this a product that I would consume? Are there ingredients inside that I wouldn’t consume?
    2. Does this product have third-party potency testing documents? You’ll want to confirm that the product is high in CBD and low levels of THC (<0.3% on a dry-weighted basis.)
    3. Where is this product from? Always choose products that contain US-grown hemp.
  • Read Product Reviews: A company can say whatever it wants about its product, but that doesn’t always make it true. If available, be sure to check out product reviews and read what other pet owners are saying about it.
  • Consult With Your Veterinarian: Always ask your veterinarian before starting your pet on CBD. They can help you determine the appropriate dosage for your pet’s situation.

The Wrap Up

The trend of vets prescribing CBD for pets is a welcome shift towards more holistic approaches to pet care. This writer is confident that as its use becomes more widespread, it will outpace traditional pharmaceuticals.

If you’re interested in learning more about CBD oil for dogs, be sure to see Sunset Lake’s 600mg Full Spectrum Pet CBD Oil. Or feel free to get in touch using our contact page, and we’ll try our best to help.

Sources:

  1. Kogan, L., Hellyer, P., & Downing, R. (2020). The use of cannabidiol-rich hemp oil extract to treat canine osteoarthritis-related pain: a pilot study. AHVMA J, 58, 1-10.
  2. Rozental, Aaron J et al. “The efficacy and safety of cannabidiol as adjunct treatment for drug-resistant idiopathic epilepsy in 51 dogs: A double-blinded crossover study.” Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine vol. 37,6 (2023): 2291-2300. doi:10.1111/jvim.16912
  3. Zavala-Tecuapetla, Cecilia et al. “Advances and Challenges of Cannabidiol as an Anti-Seizure Strategy: Preclinical Evidence.” International journal of molecular sciences vol. 23,24 16181. 19 Dec. 2022, doi:10.3390/ijms232416181

This blog was originally published on June 11, 2024 and has been updated by the original author on September 23, 2024

Can You Use CBD For Your Dog’s Paw Pads?

Posted on by TJ

While it’s not uncommon for your dog’s paw pads to become rough and cracked, that doesn’t mean that it is healthy for your pup to walk around on rough paws. That’s akin to us walking around with plantar fasciitis— not uncommon, but definitely not comfortable. 

Rough pads can lead to other issues like compulsive licking, joint problems because of uneven gait, and pain. If you notice that your dog has some rough paw pads, it’s time to consider moisturizing. 

In this post, we’ll be talking about, 

  • What CBD Is
  • How CBD can help with paw pads
  • And, how to find a product right for your pup

Continue reading “Can You Use CBD For Your Dog’s Paw Pads?”

Can CBD Help Calm Down Your Anxious Dog?

Posted on by TJ

Trips to the vet, adjusting to a new home, vacuum cleaners— these are just a few of the reasons your dog might be anxious. With triggers abound, it’s no wonder that so many people are turning to CBD to help calm their anxious dogs.

But can CBD help with your dog’s anxiety, or is it hype? In this post, we’ll cover,

  • What CBD is
  • Evidence suggesting that CBD may calm your anxious dog
  • Other common questions dog owners have

Continue reading “Can CBD Help Calm Down Your Anxious Dog?”

CBD for Dogs: What Is It And What Does It Do?

Posted on by TJ

Key Takeaways

  1. Early research suggests that CBD may be able to help dogs with chronic conditions like epilepsy, pain-related mobility issues, and stress. 
  2. We recommend starting your dog on 1-2mg of CBD per 10 lbs of their weight. However, only your veterinarian will be able to give you a more personalized recommendation for your dog. 
  3. Newer research suggests that longer-term dosing of CBD for dogs is relatively safe, provided you follow dosage amount guidance. 

Table of Contents

With the rise of CBD’s popularity among us humans, is it any wonder that there’s growing interest in CBD for dogs? Pet wellness trends come and go, but CBD has some staying power. Don’t think so? Nearly half of American veterinarians say they’re comfortable bringing up CBD with patients now. 1

In this post, we’ll talk about canine CBD products, if and how your dog could benefit from them, and how to find reputable products for your pup. 

What is CBD? 

CBD is a cannabinoid found in both hemp and cannabis plants. Unlike THC, the psychoactive cannabinoid that can hurt your pup, CBD is non-psychoactive and generally regarded as safe for canine use. 

While no FDA-approved medications or treatments for dogs exist, many veterinarians have started prescribing CBD products for their patients because of its wide range of applications. 

How Does CBD for Dogs Work?

CBD (and other cannabinoids) interact with a dog’s endocannabinoid system. The canine endocannabinoid system is similar to a human’s in that it’s a network of signaling cells that triggers to help with sleep, pain, and memory, among other functions. 

CBD can help your dog’s endocannabinoid system run more efficiently, helping manage pain, improve joint health, and reduce stress. 

What Health Issues Can CBD Help Manage?  

Below are some conditions that CBD may help your dog with. 

Seizures

This study, published in 2023, found that CBD decreased total seizures and the number of seizure days in dogs with statistical significance, meaning it couldn’t be explained by other factors.

Specifically, researchers found that 9mg of full-spectrum CBD oil per 2.2 lbs of the dog’s body weight daily helped reduce the dog’s seizure days by 24%.2

The reduction of seizure frequency and intensity is a big reason why CBD is now legal. The FDA has approved one CBD-derived drug called Epidiolex for children who suffer from rare treatment-resistant forms of epilepsy. It only makes sense that this benefit would carry over to dogs, too.  

Anxiety

CBD may be able to help your anxious dogs, too. In a preliminary study out of Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, 83% of dogs given “CBD chews” prior to a stressful event showed a decrease in stress or anxiety-related behavior. 

More research is needed to determine optimal dosages and to better control “stressful events,” but the early data is promising. 

Regarding dosing longevity, a 13-year study published in the Frontiers of Veterinary Science concluded that long-term dosing for healthy dogs was safe.3

Anecdotally, Sunset Lake serves a lot of folks who use CBD to help manage their dog’s anxiety. To which we say great. Use it as you see fit. However, if you’re interested in using CBD to manage your dog’s anxiety, we wouldn’t recommend it for young dogs or puppies. Younger dogs can actually become more high-strung and energetic when given CBD-infused products. 

Pain and Mobility 

Cornell published a study in 2018 about CBD’s anti-inflammatory and anti-pain properties of CBD for dogs with osteoarthritis— a disease that diminishes cartilage in the joints, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling. 

Researchers gave dogs between 2-8mg of CBD per 2.2 lbs of body weight. They found that over 80% of participating dogs experienced a decrease in pain and improvements in mobility and activity.4

Is CBD Safe For Dogs?

CBD products that contain trace or no amounts of THC, according to this study, seem to be safe for dogs. THC, the psychoactive cannabinoid found in cannabis products can, in higher doses, be toxic for dogs. 

Because CBD for dogs is completely unregulated, no CBD supplements are approved for pet use. That doesn’t mean that you can’t use them. It doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t use them. But it does mean you should do your homework and look for products tested for safety and potency. 

Common Question: Can CBD Kill a Dog?

A commonly searched question about CBD’s safety is: Can dogs overdose on CBD? While CBD is generally safe, you should always follow the recommended dosing guide or schedule provided with your product. CBD can cause side effects, but there’s no evidence that CBD can be fatal in dogs when used responsibly. 

What are the Side Effects? 

As with most herbal, natural remedies, CBD can cause some mild side effects in us humans and in our four-legged friends. Some of the most commonly observed side effects observed in canine CBD use are, 

  • Dry mouth: CBD can slow the production of saliva. If you give your dog CBD and notice that they start drinking more water, this could be the cause. 
  • Low blood pressure: Large doses of CBD can cause a temporary drop in blood pressure. This can lead to brief feelings of light-headedness. In dogs, this will manifest itself in unsteadiness and brief loss of coordination. If this side effect persists, please lower your dog’s dose or consult your veterinarian.  
  • Drowsiness: While many owners use CBD to manage their dog’s anxiety, there is a possibility of overdoing it. Too much CBD can make your dog drowsy. Let them sleep it off and consider lowering their dose if the fatigue persists. 

The best way to avoid unwanted side effects is by consulting your vet. They will have some insight into your dog’s specific condition and can offer more personalized advice. 

How Much CBD Should I Give My Dog?

Your dog’s ideal CBD dosage will depend on factors unique to your dog, like body weight, age, and whether or not they’re already on a medication. Only your veterinarian can give you an accurate assessment of your dog’s needs. 

However, without knowing anything about your dog, we always recommend starting slow and low with CBD oil. Start with 1-2mg of CBD for every 10 pounds of your dog’s body weight. 

For example, if you have two dogs, a 40-pound medium dog, and a 15-pound small dog, we recommend starting them on 4-8mg and 1.5-3mg of CBD per day, respectively. Once you know how they respond to their dosage, you can adjust it up or down. 

How to Find the Right CBD for Your Dog

Check the Certificate of Analysis (CoA)

If you’re looking for a safe and effective CBD product for your dog, check the vendor’s website for a certificate of analysis. It should be produced by an accredited third-party (neutral) laboratory and should tell you the amounts of CBD and THC present in the product. 

If you need a little help finding a CoA, please check out our guide here. 

Is it CBD or Hemp? 

CBD is not the same as “hemp.” CBD comes from CBD-rich hemp flower, but the term hemp may also include hemp-seed oil that’s totally CBD-free. If you’re interested in CBD products, you’ll need to specify that during your online searches. 

If you search for “hemp for dogs,” you may end up on Amazon, a site that disallows CBD products— beware. The hemp products listed on Amazon are designed and marketed to trick less experienced buyers into thinking that they contain CBD. 

Check the Ingredients 

Ask yourself this question: What’s in the product? Insist on seeing the ingredient list and look for any unnatural additives. Don’t be afraid, too, to reach out to the vendor and ask about any ingredients you’re unsure of. 

If you wouldn’t take it, is it acceptable CBD for your dog? 

FAQs

Can dogs use CBD drops?

CBD drops, another name for CBD Oil Tinctures, are safe for your dog provided that they are formulated for pets and you use them as directed. Most CBD drops are formulated with only two or three ingredients: 

  1. CBD-rich hemp extract 
  2. MCT oil (derived from coconuts) 
  3. Flavoring (optional) 

Is CBD safe for small dogs?

CBD is safe for small dogs, provided that you abide by the dosing instructions. Start your small dog on 1-2mg per 10 lbs of body weight. If you’re having trouble finding treats or chews that contain less than 5mg of CBD, we suggest trying CBD Oil. You will have much more control over your dog’s dosage with an oil-based product. 

Can dogs take CBD gummies?

We don’t recommend giving your dogs CBD gummies formulated for humans. 

  1. The dosage contained in the gummy may be too high for your dog and lead to side effects. 
  2. Some gummies contain fillers that may not be healthy for your dog. 
  3. Some CBD gummies actually contain higher levels of hemp-derived THC, which can end up harming your dog. For example, we sell a hemp-derived THC gummy in our online store— it can be fun for humans but not a great experience for your dog. 

Can I give my dog THC? 

In smaller amounts, like those found in full-spectrum CBD products (<0.3% THC by weight), THC won’t harm your dog. 

However, please don’t give your dog any THC-specific products or cannabis products. Too much THC can hurt your dog, and they won’t be able to tell you. 

Can dogs have CBD designed for people?

While it’s better to stick with CBD products designed for dogs, using a flavorless CBD oil designed for humans should be fine in a pinch. 

We actually recommend folks check out our 750mg Full-Spectrum CBD Oil Tincture if they have large dog breeds (100lbs+). The ingredients in our unflavored tinctures and pet tinctures are the same. The only difference is the CBD concentration. 

Sources

  1. Lau, Edie. “California OKs Bill to Let Veterinarians Discuss Cannabis.” News – VIN, Veterinarian Information Network, Inc. 30 Aug. 2018, https://news.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=210&Id=8700040&useobjecttypeid=10&fromVINNEWSASPX=1 
  2. Rozental, Aaron J et al. “The efficacy and safety of cannabidiol as adjunct treatment for drug-resistant idiopathic epilepsy in 51 dogs: A double-blinded crossover study.” Journal of veterinary internal medicine vol. 37,6 (2023): 2291-2300. doi:10.1111/jvim.16912
  3. Bookout, William et al. “Safety study of cannabidiol products in healthy dogs.” Frontiers in veterinary science vol. 11 1349590. 1 Mar. 2024, doi:10.3389/fvets.2024.1349590
  4. Gamble, Lauri-Jo et al. “Pharmacokinetics, Safety, and Clinical Efficacy of Cannabidiol Treatment in Osteoarthritic Dogs.” Frontiers in veterinary science vol. 5 165. 23 Jul. 2018, doi:10.3389/fvets.2018.00165

This post was originally published on August 11, 2021 and was updated by the original author on September 23, 2024. 

How Much CBD Oil Should I Give My Dog?

Posted on by TJ

We here at Sunset Lake CBD are asked this question all the time: How much CBD oil should I give my dog? A great question! CBD is a relatively new product that a lot of people are approaching for the first time, let alone with their four-legged friends. Luckily, we’re here to help.

If you’re unsure if CBD is right for your pet, check out our previous blog post on CBD for Pets: What You Should Know. Continue reading “How Much CBD Oil Should I Give My Dog?”

CBD For Pets: What You Should Know

Posted on by TJ

Key Takeaways

  1. CBD is a natural supplement that can help with your pet’s general health and mobility. 
  2. CBD has no official health benefits, but many pet owners use CBD successfully to treat their pets every day.
  3. Not all CBD products for pets are made the same. Make sure you know what you’re buying and who you’re buying it from

Continue reading “CBD For Pets: What You Should Know”

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