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HELP YOUR DOG STAY CALM WITH CBD DURING STRESSFUL TIMES
HELP YOUR DOG STAY CALM WITH CBD DURING STRESSFUL TIMES
CBD stands for cannabidiol, which is an oil extracted from hemp plants. Hemp does not contain a significant amount of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which is the psychoactive component of marijuana. Hemp itself usually has no more than 0.3% THC. (Cannabis, which is the marijuana plant, contains 12% THC).1 For this reason, CBD oil is legal in most states. Never give your dog human-grade CBD or edibles, as they likely contain significant amounts of THC, which is highly toxic for dogs.
Summer brings travel, thunderstorms, and the Fourth of July fireworks. All of these can be stressful times for dogs, which can cause anxiety and fear. CBD oil has become a popular solution to help calm dogs during these events. It might be the answer to your dog’s anxiety. A study by Cornell University showed that 83% of dogs given CBD chews before a stressful event displayed less stress or anxiety-related behavior.2
CBD is considered safe and effective for dogs3, with minimal side effects. It can be given in various forms, such as oils, treats, or capsules, making it easy to administer. It is also a natural treatment for pet owners seeking to avoid pharmaceutical medications for anxiety, which can take weeks before any notable effects. Its use can help dogs remain calm without the risk of sedative effects from some traditional treatments. The key is to ensure you use a reputable brand, the product is of high quality, and the dose is appropriate. Check out ElleVet Sciences, who, in 2016, partnered with Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine in a clinical trial to gather scientific data, better understand their product, determine accurate dosing, and determine if hemp treatments are genuinely effective.4
CBD’s calming effects can often be observed relatively quickly, making it an ideal solution for sudden and unexpected anxiety triggers. Traveling with dogs has its challenges, only to be amplified if they suffer from anxiety. CBD can help reduce travel-related stress, making your pet’s car rides and flights more comfortable. It can also help with motion sickness and calm your dog in unfamiliar environments. The American Kennel Club says that while there’s no definitive scientific data on using CBD to treat dogs, there’s good anecdotal evidence from dog owners on its anti-anxiety impact.5
Preventive measures are always best. Administering CBD about 30-60 minutes before an anxiety trigger starts can help ensure your dog remains calm throughout the trigger. If you suddenly find yourself in an anxiety trigger, consider treating your pet sublingually with CBD oil. The onset of the CBD effect may be quicker than with oral ingestion.
Studies using CBD have significantly increased in recent years and have found many other benefits for your dog beyond fireworks and travel anxiety reduction. Benefits include pain relief6 due to its anti-inflammatory properties, seizure management7, atopic dermatitis symptom relief8, appetite stimulation, and nausea control, as well as your dog’s overall well-being.
While CBD can be a great aid in managing your dog’s anxiety, it’s essential to consult with your veterinarian before starting any new treatment. Using CBD in combination with other drugs will cause them to interact and change how the medications perform. With the right approach, travel and the Fourth of July can be a less stressful experience for you and your canine companion. ■
Cornell University, Richard P. Riney Canine Health Center
Cornell University Study
The Humane Society of the US
ElleVet Sciences
The American Kennel Club
The Humane Society of the US
Colorado State University has an ongoing study on using CBD as an addition to epilepsy control in dogs.
A study by the Australian animal therapeutics company CannPal
STUDY : KATHY PALMER, OWNER OF THE FISH & BONE
HAVE I EVER USED CBD/CBDA PERSONALLY?
Yes. Our five-year-old boxer mix, Mercy, has mild anxiety in the car and more heightened anxiety during storms. When we are prepping Mercy for travel, we give her CBD treats – ElleVet ElleCalm, Super Snouts Chill Out, or Austin & Kat’s 10mg Soft Chew. CBD chewables take longer than oils to take effect. Still, for occasions like road trips, we can plan ahead.
It’s always better to dose preventively before the anxiety takes hold. But there are times when we don’t know a storm is coming, for instance, and she’s already become anxious. That’s a good time to provide a CBD oil directly into her mouth, like Austin & Kat’s Extra Strength CBD Oil for Dogs & Cats 600mg. Mercy weighs 50 lbs, and I give her about half a dropper, about 10mg, if she’s mildly anxious. We’ll start with one full dropper or 20mg if she’s more nervous. Usually, we’ll give her the same amount after about 30 minutes and again an hour later if she’s still not relaxed.
I also use CBD for myself often for sleep and to keep my anxiety low. I have even taken some pet hemp by Super Snouts when I’m out of my oil. ■
