The Ultimate Guide to CBD Oil for Dogs

Extracted from the flowers or buds of the hemp plant, CBD is a safe alternative to many medical treatments for pets. Hemp and marijuana both come from the cannabis family but have vastly different levels of the psychoactive THC cannabinoid. Marijuana can contain as much as 30 percent THC per serving. CBD from hemp, however, will not contain any more than 0.3 percent, which is the legal limit set forth by the federal government. CBD oil differs from hemp oil in that it comes from the aerial parts of full-grown hemp plants. It contains less than one percent of the psychoactive THC cannabinoid found in much higher levels in oil derived from marijuana. Hemp oil, on the other hand, is derived from cannabis seeds and contains extremely little CBD. Although hemp oil does not have the same nutritional profile as CBD products, it is still used by pet parents for its high mineral and vitamin content.

Extracted from the flowers or buds of the hemp plant, CBD is a safe alternative to many medical treatments for pets. Hemp and marijuana both come from the cannabis family but have vastly different levels of the psychoactive THC cannabinoid. Marijuana can contain as much as 30 percent THC per serving. CBD from hemp, however, will not contain any more than 0.3 percent, which is the legal limit set forth by the federal government.

CBD oil differs from hemp oil in that it comes from the aerial parts of full-grown hemp plants. It contains less than one percent of the psychoactive THC cannabinoid found in much higher levels in oil derived from marijuana. Hemp oil, on the other hand, is derived from cannabis seeds and contains extremely little CBD. Although hemp oil does not have the same nutritional profile as CBD products, it is still used by pet parents for its high mineral and vitamin content.

WHAT IS CBD OIL?

The term CBD stands for cannabidiol, one of many compounds found in the hemp plant known as cannabinoids. The hemp plant contains nearly 400 different cannabinoid compounds that are specific to the hemp plant and its cousin, marijuana. Although the two plants are related, CBD from hemp does not contain the high tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) levels found in marijuana that contribute to “high” felt when using marijuana as a recreational drug.

As a non-psychoactive supplement, full spectrum CBD can provide many of the health benefits found in the marijuana plant without the risk of getting high. CBD is perfectly legal on the federal level, although each state will have its own regulations pertaining to the distribution and usage of the product. Modern research seems to be proving the vast wealth of health benefits found in the hemp plant, specifically the CBD cannabinoid. The product has been used successfully for animals and people to treat a variety of conditions ranging from poor sleep to depression to hyperactivity to anxiety.

WHERE DOES CBD COME FROM?

CBD is derived from the leaves, flowers and, occasionally, the stems of the hemp plant. It is then extracted using either a chemical process, distillation or oil extraction to concentrate the medicinal benefits of the hemp plant.

There are several different methods of extraction. Each of them uses a slightly different method to obtain the oil. The options vary in cost of operation and effectiveness and will also have an effect on the purity and quality of CBD products. According to Leafly.com, the CO2 extraction method is favored over other methods because of the extremely low levels of residual material left over in the oil. CO2 extraction is also extremely sustainable and can be done over and over using the same solution.

The supercritical CO2 extraction method has the ability to separate components of hemp using an inert solvent. They are called “supercritical” as a result of their ability to fluctuate between states of either liquid, solid or gaseous. In these states, supercritical fluids can break down structures into components in a process called fractionization. The most common supercritical solvent used in this process is CO2.

CO2 is the chemical term for carbon dioxide, a gas present in our environment and necessary to sustain life on earth. Carbon dioxide in its natural state is a gas and must be frozen and compressed to turn it into a liquid. Further compression results in the supercritical state at which it can be used to dissolve other substances and fractionate them. CO2 extraction methods are among the safest available and are quickly gaining popularity in the CBD field over other extraction methods using petroleum-based hydrocarbons such as butane or propane.

CO2 extraction also allows the gas to change from its fluid to supercritical state at temperatures below 90 degrees Fahrenheit. This allows the natural volatile compounds found in CBD to remain intact and not oxidize during the extraction process. The solubility of CO2 changes with pressure. This ability allows the extraction process to fractionate various biomolecules found in the hemp plant. Various compounds such as THCA, CBD, CBG, THCV, and CBDA can all be separated from each other and sold as individual compounds. Other elements extracted from the hemp plant and fractionated include terpenes and additional compounds.

BENEFITS OF CBD OIL FOR DOGS

WILL CBD WORK FOR MY DOG?

The bodies of all mammals contain what is known as the endocannabinoid system. This system consists of receptors found on each cell in the body. Any cannabinoid products that enter into the body bind to these receptors to produce different responses. The discovery of these receptors and their relation to the biochemical communication in the body was recently unknown and has only been published as a scientific fact within recent years.

This endocannabinoid system is responsible for regulating everyday functions of the body including digestion, mood, pain management, inflammatory responses, heart health, and brain function. In short, the endocannabinoid system is a master key to all the systems of the body and can be tapped into to influence the body’s ability to remain in homeostasis.

According to ProjectCBD.org, cannabinoids are specific compounds that trigger multiple receptors in the body. More than 100 different cannabinoids have been discovered in the hemp plant with many more co-factors included. Of these cannabinoids, THC and CBD have been the most widely studied and accepted. In addition to the cannabinoids found in the plant itself, there are multiple other endogenous cannabinoids such as anandamide and 2AG that occur naturally in the bodies of mammals.

Pre-clinical research sponsored by the U.S. government appears to indicate that CBD has potent “anti” properties including anti-cancer, antioxidant, anti-spasmodic, anti-psychotic and neuroprotective properties. As a substance that directly activates serotonin receptors, CBD also has a direct anti-anxiety effect.

CBD is currently being studied as an alternative form of treatment to chemotherapy due to its ability to down-regulate specific cancer-prone genes such as ID-1. Silencing this gene, which is implicated in various forms of aggressive cancer, is a potential pathway for successful cancer treatment naturally. The best results occurred when CBD was taken as a full-spectrum extract with all the different cannabinoids and co-factors. Since your dog is a mammal whose body contains the endocannabinoid system found in all mammals, CBD can have a direct impact on the health and wellbeing of your pet.

WHAT DOG HEALTH PROBLEMS CAN CBD TREAT?

Anxiety in dogs can be a trying condition and ranges in levels from mild to severe. There are very little products on the market that have been found to be successful in treating dogs with this condition. However, the emergence of CBD in the market has proven to be an effective alternative remedy for pet owners with want to give their dogs a natural product rather than a synthetic substance and for those whose pets fail to respond to traditional medical treatment.

Pets have similar emotions to those of humans and can experience joy, euphoria, fear, sadness, anger, anxiety and depression just like you. However, unlike humans, dogs cannot manage their anxiety and come up with solutions to the problem on their own. This is where the owners of our furry friends come in. Sometimes, it can be extremely difficult to determine what caused your pet to freak out in the first place. Fireworks, thunderstorms, additional people in the home, a new piece of artwork or a rearranged room can all be triggers for a dog’s anxiety to kick in. It is a well-known fact that the 4th of July and Halloween are tow holidays that result in high rates of anxiety in dogs of all ages and breeds.

According to Sitstay.com, anxiety in dogs can be difficult to notice. Some of the symptoms of the condition include scratching at doors, licking of the lips, excessive grooming, whining, pacing, and uncontrolled urination. CBD works to combat anxiety by triggering the brain to release serotine, the “feel good” hormone that is stimulated whenever you engage in a pleasurable experience.

Appetite Increase and CBD

CBD oil reviews have shown that the product has also been used to successfully treat poor appetite, nausea and vomiting. While not every dog is a voracious eater, all dogs, in general, do like food. Mealtimes are the best times of their day and are a highlight for all dogs. A dog that suddenly loses interest in food is a sure sign of something being badly wrong. The longer a dog goes without eating, the more nutrients they deplete, leading to an increased risk of malnutrition and susceptibility to illnesses. Lacking the ability to speak, your dog relies completely on you to recognize when something is amiss. Sometimes the reason is something you can figure out on your own at home. Other times, the dog might require a trip to a vet to determine the reason for the problem. Common reasons for loss of appetite include:

ILLNESS

These can range in intensity from mild to severe. If your dog has refused food for the past 24 hours and then perks up and devours the next day’s meals, the problem might have been something he ate or having eaten too fast. If the dog goes without food for 48 hours, it is time to seek professional guidance. Reasons for loss of appetite can include kidney failure, infection or intestinal worms.

MEDICATION

Certain medications come with side effects that can include loss of appetite. Chemotherapy is an extreme example that causes severe nausea and diarrhea similar to that experienced by people. Your vet can tell you upfront if loss of appetite is to be expected from taking a specific medication.

STRESSORS AND UPHEAVALS: CBD OIL FOR ANXIETY

Feelings of stress and anxiety in dogs can put a damper on their natural appetite. If you have recently made a significant change in your life style, such as moving into a new home, taking the dog to a new kennel or daycare or have welcomed another family member into your life, your dog may experience a certain amount of stress and tension. Recognizing anxiety for what it is and taking steps to ensure the comfort of your pet using CBD oil for anxiety will mean all the difference in the world to your furry family member. The best CBD oil is a natural anti-anxiety supplement and has been used successfully in humans and people alike.

Chronic pain: Using CBD Oil for Pain

Chronic pain from injuries can be alleviated by using broad spectrum CBD with all the benefits of the whole plant. When combined in a base of coconut oil, the result of CBD oil for pain is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent that can take the edge of or completely eliminate chronic pain in dogs. According to DogsNaturally.com, there are multiple conditions that CBD can be used to treat in dogs.

IS IT SAFE TO GIVE A DOG CBD?

The high levels of THC found in marijuana can be quite toxic to dogs, which is why many dog owners might be hesitant to give their pets a substance derived from a plant in the same family. However, CBD derived from hemp does not contain anywhere near the levels of THC found in marijuana. While marijuana-derived CBD can contain as much as 30 percent of THC, CBD from hemp contains a hundred times less than that at no more than 0.3 percent THC per serving.

Safe CBD for dogs can be difficult to locate, as pet-approved formulations are not currently regulated. However, there are some factors that you can keep in mind to ensure that your dog is getting the finest possible product you can by.

Organic Hemp

The best CBD oil for dogs is grown organically without the use of pesticides and other chemical toxins. Hemp is very good at taking in whatever is in its environment and will readily absorb any chemicals used in the growing process. As a result, it is critical that the full spectrum product you choose for your dog be free from as many toxins as possible.

Safe Processing Methods

As mentioned above, not all processing methods are created equal. Safe extraction methods include CO2 extraction and cold pressing. Some companies use cheaper methods involving propane, hexane, and butane that leave behind harmful residues in the final product.

Independent Testing

The best companies will have third-party testing done on their product to prove their quality and purity. A company can test for microbiology, pesticides, residual solvents, mycotoxins, heavy metals, and other undesirable elements. A certificate of analysis will then be provided at the end and made available to the public. CBD from organic hemp that is sustainably grown will have the cleanest certificate of analysis.

Review THC Levels in CBD

Ensure that the product you are about to give your dog does in fact contain minimal amounts of THC at 0.3 percent or below. Levels higher than that can become toxic in your dog and are most likely derived from marijuana rather than hemp.

HOW THE BEST CBD OILS INTERACT WITH THE BODY

The bodies of mammals contain an endocannabinoid system with specific receptors on each cell of the body. These receptors are sensitive to the cannabinoids produced naturally by the body and those administered orally or intradermally. When these receptors are “filled” with their respective cannabinoids, the results are a total body synergy that is further enhanced by the “entourage effect” of full-spectrum CBD. All the compounds found in complete spectrum CBD work together to create this effect and can have a powerful impact on the health and wellbeing of your pet.

WILL CBD OIL GET MY DOG HIGH?

Unlike CBD derived from marijuana, CBD from hemp contains only trace amounts of THC at 0.3 percent or less. Your dog will be able to experience all the benefits of CBD without negative reactions to excessive amounts of THC. For very small dogs and dogs whose vets recommend that absolutely no THC be administered, CBD isolate is another option recommended by SitStay.com. While it will not provide the same effect as full spectrum CBD, it can still alleviate acute symptoms and bring rapid relief.

What Vets Think About Full-spectrum CBD oil for Dogs According to Leafly.com, veterinarians with a holistic focus are excited to offer CBD as a solution for many of their patient’s ailments. One veterinarian in California successfully used DBD to treat seizures on his own dog. CBD has been shown to help with everything from pain and soreness to stress and anxiety. CBD derived from the hemp plant is very safe for dogs and is extremely unlikely to cause any adverse reactions. As always, a good vet will recommend that you ensure that the product you want to feed to your dog is free from harmful elements by studying the certificate of analysis.

Full-spectrum CBD can also be used in conjunction with other medications. In some situations, it can be used to replace Western medications altogether. Be sure to talk with your vet about the ways the best CBD oils can be beneficial for the health of your pet before changing any medications or treatment plans. For older dogs, using CBD oil for arthritis can be a game-changer, adding months or years even to their lifespan and ability to move around with ease.

CONCLUSION

The best CBD oil for dogs can be found easily by searching for CBD oil reviews and ensuring that you get the best product possible. Look for products that contain either coconut oil or MCT oil for an extra boost of nutrition. MCT oil, in particular, is especially useful for weight management and healthy metabolic processes.

Remember that hemp seed oil is not the same thing as CBD and contains very little of the active ingredients that make CBD oils so effective. You can continue giving your pet hemp seed oil, as the supplement is full of nutritional value, but you might have better effects using CBD from organic hemp if you are trying to treat more acute situations.

CBD oils are a very effective solution to many of the health problems that plague our furry friends on a regular basis. From CBD isolate to full-spectrum CBD oil, the many CBD products available in today’s world make it easy to deliver the benefits of CBD to your pet with minimal effort. Take a step in the CBD direction today to ensure your pet’s future good health by watching this video on CBD benefits by a vet. Enjoy!

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