Pawsitively Zen: CBD and Pets

Pawsitively Zen: CBD and Pets

This year National Pet CBD Day is April 21st! When David Louvet’s beloved dog got cancer in 2016, there were not many options to help with his pup’s pain and other side effects of this horrible disease. As co-owner of Innovet Pet Products he began to educate himself on CBD and its benefits and now supplies pet parents everywhere with the highest quality of CBD oils and chews. They founded National Pet CBD Day and to date have helped well over 500,000 pets live happier, healthier and pain free lives!

Pet parents throughout our world are looking for more effective and less harmful substances to aid with their dog’s pain management, stresses in their lives and the other issues that can affect the health and well-being of their beloved fur babies.

History of CBD

In order for you to make a wise decision on how, what, and when you should use a CBD product, it is important to review the history of CBD and how it came to be used in humans and their pets.

The history of CBD dates back thousands of years, as the cannabis plant has been used for medicinal purposes throughout much of human history. In fact, there are records of cannabis being used for medicinal purposes in ancient China, India, and Egypt, among other places. However, it wasn’t until the mid-20th century that scientists first identified CBD as a distinct compound within the cannabis plant.

n 1940, a team of researchers at the University of Illinois isolated CBD for the first time, and in the following years, scientists continued to study its properties and potential health benefits. However, it wasn’t until the 1980s that researchers discovered the endocannabinoid system in the human body, which is a complex system of receptors and neurotransmitters that interacts with compounds found in the cannabis plant, including CBD. This discovery helped pave the way for further research into the potential health benefits of CBD, and today, CBD is used to treat a wide range of conditions, including chronic pain, anxiety, and epilepsy, among others.

Unfortunately, with the passage of the controlled substance act in the 1970’s the possession and production of hemp was greatly restricted and thus halted most scientific research at that time.

Enter 2023! We now know, with the passage of other hemp research laws, that there are numerous benefits to using CBD with our pets, and we understand more and more how it affects the endocannabinoid system in our animals.

It is important to note that studies of hemp and the effectiveness of dogs are not widely published to date. However, you will find that Colorado State University and Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine did publish papers on their study using ElleVet Sciences CBD-CBDA.

Let’s be clear here. The CBD we are talking about is derived from hemp not from a marijuana plant. Some of you might ask, is there a difference? The answer is a resounding yes!

There is very little to no THC known as 9-tetrahydrocannabinol in hemp. This means it is safe to use as directed on or in your pet. Note: Always keep marijuana edibles etc. meant for humans, safely stored where your pet cannot get to them. The THC levels in these products are very toxic. Seek immediate veterinary attention if you believe your pet has ingested them.

Why should I try CBD with my pet?

You may ask yourself why you would want to use CBD with your pet. CBD has been shown to have potential health benefits for pets, including pain relief, anxiety and stress reduction, and seizure management. Additionally, many pet parents want to avoid the ugly side effects of prescription drugs, especially for long term chronic issues like arthritis, anxiety, skin problems, seizures, and digestive issues. Like their human counterparts, animals thrive with more natural holistic approaches to their health.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that CBD is not a cure-all, and it may not work for every pet or every condition. Additionally, there is still much to learn about the potential benefits and risks of CBD for pets, and research in this area is ongoing. Before trying CBD with your pet, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian to ensure that it is safe and appropriate for your pet’s specific needs, and to choose high-quality products from reputable manufacturers.

What are the benefits of CBD for my pet?

Pain relief: CBD has been shown to have analgesic properties, which means it can help reduce pain and inflammation. This can be particularly beneficial for pets with chronic pain conditions, such as arthritis or hip dysplasia. It might surprise you that some studies show that one in five dogs will suffer from osteoarthritis, more commonly known as arthritis, in their lifetime. By reducing inflammation, CBD can help improve mobility and overall comfort.

Anxiety and stress reduction: Pets can experience anxiety and stress for a variety of reasons, including separation anxiety, loud noises, or changes in routine. CBD has been shown to have anxiolytic properties, meaning it can help reduce anxiety and stress levels. This can help pets feel more relaxed and calm, which can improve their overall well-being.

Seizure management: CBD has also been studied for its potential anti-epileptic properties. In fact, the FDA has approved a CBD-based medication called Epidiolex for the treatment of seizures in humans. While more research is needed, there is some evidence to suggest that CBD may be helpful for managing seizures in pets as well.

It’s important to note that before giving your pet CBD, you should always consult with your veterinarian to ensure that it is safe and appropriate for your pet’s specific needs. Additionally, make sure to choose high-quality CBD products that are specifically formulated for pets and that contain no THC, as THC can be harmful to pets.

Is CBD safe for my cat?

Yes it is! Studies are showing that using CBD oil for their cat’s anxiety provides benefits with little side effects. Some cats may experience side effects such as drowsiness, increased thirst, or upset stomach, while others may not experience any noticeable effects at all.

You’ll want to research the highest quality and standards for testing when you make the decision whether this is the best solution for you and your kitty.

How to Find a Quality CBD Oil

By now your brain is racing and you’re thinking that there is so much for you to learn and you are probably wondering just how to go about finding a great CBD product!

You can begin your search by checking out Best Reviews here for information that can help you in deciding which product is right for your pet. This site gives you an overall review, pros and cons and the ability to check out the price. MIDSS  is another place for you to review products, investigate third party testing and read customer reviews.

Some companies to check out include:

In closing, any of these companies will provide you with everything you need to know in order to make an informed decision that will be in the best interest of your pet.

Conclusion

CBD is growing in popularity and in its overall acceptance as a great way to maintain the health of your pets so don’t let any more time go by! Start today by looking into what is the best solution for your dog and get them started toward happy sunny days and fun summer nights!