Anxiety is a problem that affects not only humans but animals as well. Our pets can suffer from stress the same way we do. For instance, is your dog hiding under the couch every time a thunderstorm comes? Is it afraid of fireworks or crowded places?
You can see anxiety symptoms in everyday life or new, unique situations, such as a new year celebration. These may not be problems with your pet’s character but a sign that it is dealing with anxiety issues.
Is there anything that you can do about it? More and more pet owners don’t want their pups to take artificial medications, so they turn to all-natural ways of treatment. One way to do it is to use cannabinoid oil, best known as CBD. But is CBD oil safe for your pets, and does it actually work?
What Is CBD Oil?
Cannabidiol is a compound derived from hemp, and it contains less than 0,3% of THC, the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. Other than that, it is worth mentioning that CBD manufacturers have the necessary technology to extract CBD oil from the plant without other potentially harmful substances.
Research shows that the body (both human and animal) naturally produces small amounts of endocannabinoids (ECS) that work as neurotransmitters in the nervous system and regulate functions like sleep, mood, and appetite. CBD interacts with ECS and prevents them from breaking down, allowing the body to produce more serotonin. As a result, you feel happier and more relaxed.
Symptoms of Anxiety in Dogs
Every situation can be stressful to your pet. When it comes to dogs, the most popular ones include thunderstorms, firework shows, car rides, separation, crowds, or meeting other animals. If you are not able to tell whether your dog is stressed, look for the following symptoms.
- urinating
- whining
- excessive barking
- pacing
- shaking or trembling
- vomiting
- aggression
However, bear in mind that every dog is different. Because of that, there is no one way to diagnose them with anxiety issues. It is always best to have a talk with a veterinarian to discuss the issue and come up with a solution.
Which CBD Oil Should You Choose?
The first thing that might come to mind is the question regarding whether dogs can use the same CBD oil as humans. The short answer is yes. However, it can contain too much THC for some dogs and sometimes additional harmful substances like xylitol, raisins, or chocolate.
Special CBD products have become a lot more accessible in recent years, so you should have no problem finding one that will suit the needs of your dog. They are available in pet stores, veterinary clinics, and boarding facilities.
Even though you should have no problem with buying the oil, you still need to do your research to choose the right quality one. When shopping for CBD products, it’s crucial to determine the hemp source and where it was manufactured, as well as check if it contains any harmful substances.
Can Dogs Overdose on CBD?
It is a popular question among owners. Pure CBD is not toxic to dogs. In case of eating too much, they will just get sleepy. So, CBD overdose is not life-threatening. However, it is essential to remember that CBD can interact with other medications, as it has the potential to affect the metabolism of other drugs. In most cases, the effect is too weak to cause any significant changes, but it is important when CBD is used in seizure control, as doses of other anticonvulsants may need to be adjusted.
How to Use CBD Oil?
After choosing the right oil and talking to your veterinarian, it’s time to start the treatment. Your dog’s age, breed, and weight should determine how big the dose should be. Most veterinarians advise starting with the lowest dose possible, which is 0,25mg once a day.
Then, you should slowly increase the amount and observe how the dog reacts. On top of that, you should remember that most oils come in different potencies. You will need to choose the one best suited for your dog’s breed.
The Bottom Line
It is a horrible sight – your best friend hiding under the couch instead of wagging its tail and playing with you. But you can do something about it! Going out without the need to worry about your pet is a comfort everyone should have, and CBD oil is a great way to treat anxiety in both humans and dogs.
It will make your dog happier and less stressed without much chance of any side effects. You can fix your relationship and start leading a better life together. Considering this, take your time browsing the best brands and choosing the ideal oil to help your pup.
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