If you take a look around holistic wellness, you’ll probably see a lot of discussion about CBD products. That’s not surprising at all for those who enjoy the many benefits. You may have even seen topics on giving CBD to dogs and had a few questions of your own. Maybe you’ve wondered if it is effective for dogs and if it is safe. Many canine owners may wonder how it could help their dogs. In short, CBD does offer benefits for dogs and can help them live a happier, healthier life. Let’s take a look at the ways CBD might be a holistic option for your canine buddy.
Ways Your Dog May Benefit from CBD
CBD for Mobility
As your dog ages, you might notice he has more challenges when it comes to mobility. That is a normal part of aging. He may not be able to enjoy long walks, or you may notice him struggling to climb up the stairs. Pet parents often use CBD for these types of mobility issues. CBD can support flexibility and healthy joints, provide support for connective tissue, and help relieve some joint stiffness. CBD can help maintain joint mobility and support bone health.
CBD for Pain
Once you understand your dog, you pick up on when they are in pain. Of course, dogs are notorious for hiding pain, just like their wild ancestors. In most cases, once a dog makes his pain known, it’s progressed. As a pet parent, you don’t want to see your dog in pain. CBD can help relieve pain, whether it is part of the normal aging process, or the result of a recent injury or operation. CBD helps support the normal inflammatory response in the body, which helps relieve stiffness and soreness. But it also supports healthy cellular activity and normal muscle recovery.
CBD for Stress
Dogs can be affected by stress, just like people. There are a lot of reasons a pup may become stressed or nervous. Loud noises, like fireworks or thunderstorms, a change in the household, a change in their routine, or being separated from their loved ones can cause them stress. On the other hand, you may have a dog who deals with hyperactivity, which causes extra energy and, sometimes, destructive behavior. CBD has a calming effect on the nervous system, which can help your pet relax and become emotionally balanced. It can help your pet cope with external stress so they can remain relaxed and calmer.
CBD for Wellness
We take supplements, vitamins, and CBD to support our immune systems. It just makes sense that dogs can also benefit from immune-boosting foods and supplements. Holistic options can be particularly beneficial as they reach their senior years. Additional support can make a huge difference in helping to improve their quality of life. CBD helps support the immune system, cardiovascular function, and neurological function for dogs. It is also helpful for maintaining their physical and mental wellbeing.
Is CBD Safe for Pets?
As long as you make sure the CBD products you give your dog are derived from the hemp plant, they are safe. Hemp is a variety of the cannabis plant, and it doesn’t contain THC. However, products that are derived from the marijuana variety of cannabis, is not safe for animal consumption. Marijuana contains THC which can be toxic for animals. Hemp-derived CBD may make your pet a bit lethargic at the very beginning. Other than that, CBD rarely produces side-effects in animals. Just like humans, every dog is different. Most dogs do not exhibit any side-effects, however, in rare occasions, these side effects might occur.
- Dry Mouth. CBD might cause a decrease in the amount of saliva produced. This might make your pet thirstier than normal. Make sure they have access to fresh water, so they can get a drink if they need it.
- Slight Lethargy. CBD is known to promote relaxation. Your pet might seem a bit sleepy when they are first introduced to CBD products. If they seem too drowsy, adjust the dosage accordingly.
- Whenever you introduce a new food or supplement to your dog, you probably know to expect diarrhea. In the case of CBD, it’s not the CBD causing gastrointestinal upset, instead it is caused by the carrier oil. This is why it’s important to introduce CBD to your dog in small increments to give them time to adjust. It may also help to give it at mealtime so they don’t take it on an empty stomach.
Brio Nutrition CBD for Dogs
People are turning to holistic health options for a variety of reasons, and it’s no different for our pets. You may have already reaped the benefits of taking CBD products, and it can be exciting to know your dog can benefit from them as well. Contact us at Brio Nutrition to discuss how our CBD products can help support your pet’s health and happiness.