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CBD Oil Benefits for Pets

4/4/2020

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With all the new CBD oil products flooding the market, you may be wondering if CBD oil is as good for pets as it seems to be for people.

Does CBD oil have any health or wellness benefits for pets? Is there anything in particular you need to know about how to dose or use CBD oil for pets?

This is an important topic, especially since it can be hard to find effective products that are specifically designed for use with pets.

In this article, we walk you through an overview of what veterinarians and animal experts have to share about CBD oil benefits for pets.

What Does the Research Say About CBD Oil for Pets?

Right now, there has been relatively little formal research that has tested the benefits of CBD oil for use with pets. But this will likely change in years to come.

However, as the American Kennel Club (AKC) points out, dog owners are reporting that CBD oil can potentially help to ease pain and neurological symptoms such as seizures.

One organization that has done research to look at how CBD oil might help pets with arthritis is Cornell University.
The Frontiers in Veterinary Science study results were published in 2018.

Researchers learned that dosing with CBD helped dogs diagnosed with osteoarthritis by reducing pain and increasing mobility and activity. Most promisingly, researchers noted that side effects seemed to be absent.

Another 2018 research study supported by Colorado State University's James L. Voss Veterinary Teaching Hospital delivered equally promising results for dogs with seizures.

Dosing with CBD was able to reduce the frequency of seizure episodes in 89 percent of canine research participants.

What Do Veterinarians Say About Using CBD Oil for Pets?

Although research studies on the topic of CBD oil for pets are still few and far between, this doesn't mean the topic isn't being discussed.

Quite the contrary, as a matter of fact. The Veterinary Information Network (VIN) reports that nearly two-thirds of veterinarians are having discussions with pet owners about using CBD for pets on a regular basis.

However, other than California, which has taken an open stance towards allowing veterinarians to discuss CBD products with pet parents, most other states are still quite strict in their restrictions.

Veterinarians who do not abide by state protocols risk losing their right to practice in that state.

You can always ask your veterinarian for guidance. This is particularly wise if your dog is already taking other medications or is elderly or immune-compromised. If your state's laws do not allow your veterinarian to offer guidance, they will let you know.

What Are Benefits of Using CBD Oil for Pets?

One fact is clear: there would not be so much discussion and interest in CBD oil benefits for pets if there were no benefits!

In fact, the two existing research studies on this topic - CBD for canine osteoarthritis and CBD for canine seizures - both showed tremendous promise.

In both studies, canine research participants received noticeable benefits, including a reduction in pain, an increase in mobility and a reduction in seizure episodes.

Are there other benefits that your pet might gain from using CBD oil?

One of the main ways that pet owners and researchers are approaching the possible benefits of CBD oil for pets is to look at similar human studies to see if there may be similarities.

PetMD outlines five categories
that are generating a lot of interest in the potential benefits of CBD oil for pets: pain, arthritis, seizures, anxiety and cancer.

Pet pain and CBD oil.

Pet pain can be particularly hard to treat. Dogs cannot tolerate some human medications and some dogs in particular are very sensitive to medicines.

This makes CBD oil a potentially valuable alternate treatment for pain relief.

CBD oil can be combined with a massage, which is a well-researched and studied method of providing pain relief for arthritis, inflammation and chronic stress.

Pet arthritis and CBD oil.

Arthritis is incredibly common in pets. The American College of Veterinary Surgeons reports as many as one-quarter of all dogs may suffer from arthritis.

CBD oil may be beneficial both in reducing pain and increasing mobility, which in turn can boost quality of life.

Pet seizures and CBD oil.

VCA Animal Hospital states that pet seizures are one of the most common neurological health issues in pets today.

CBD oil may be beneficial in reducing the number and intensity of pet seizures.

Pet anxiety and CBD oil.

The American Veterinary Medical Association has written extensively on pet anxiety. Separation anxiety is one of the most common anxiety conditions for pets.

Treatments to date have delivered only sporadic results. This makes CBD's well-documented anti-anxiety properties for humans of great interest to canine researchers as well.

Pet cancer and CBD oil.

The Animal Cancer Foundation
reports that pet cancers are increasing. Animals are often treated in similar ways to how people with cancer are treated.

CBD oil may be useful for management of symptoms and side effects from cancer treatments and medications.

If you want to try CBD oil with your pet, always reach out to your veterinarian first to see if it is possible to receive guidance. As an alternative, start with the lowest manufacturer-recommended CBD oil dose until you see how your pet responds.

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The Medicinal Benefits of CBD for Pets

1/16/2020

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The chances you have heard about the potential for the medicinal benefits of CBD is excellent. CBD oil has been featured on the news, internet and even in magazines. This is the reason close attention is now being given to CBD by the researchers. CBD has become available in many different locations. Although most people are aware of the benefits for humans, they are not aware many of these benefits are applicable for their pets as well.

It is important to note no scientific studies regarding the use of CBD on pets have been conducted. Despite this, veterinarians and holistic doctors have both stated CBD is usually safe when consumed by pets such as dogs and cats. The possible side effects are generally lethargy or an upset stomach. Most side effects will disappear once the pet has become used to the CBD. If any side effect persists, you can simply stop giving CBD to your pet.


The biggest issue according to the medical community is the dosage your pet receives. In order to make certain your pet is safe and receives all of the benefits, you must ensure you are using the correct dosage of CBD. This will provide your pet with the best possible results as opposed to any undesirable consequences. CBD will help your pet with many of the same issues experienced by humans.

What is CBD?

Over 100 different, natural chemical compounds have been identified in cannabis plants. CBD or cannabidiol is the compound used most frequently for medicinal purposes. CBD and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) are different compounds of the plant. There is a lot of confusion regarding these compounds. THC is what provides users with a psychoactive or high feeling. Unlike THC, CBD is derived from the hemp plant. The THC content is so low, the CBD does not provide any mind-altering effects.

Despite how well CBD products work for animals, there is an issue regarding the legal classification of CBD. Even though the legal status remains somewhat unclear in numerous states, you can purchase CBD oil all over the country. CBD has been in legalized in numerous countries, but the restrictions differ. You do not need a medical cannabis card to purchase CBD in many different parts of the world. The position of the various governments is generally based on where the CBD was derived.

In the United States, the distinction is whether the CBD was derived from marijuana or hemp plants. If the THC content is below 0.3 percent, the CBD product is classified as hemp. There are currently no restrictions on hemp. The majority of CBD products you can purchase for your pet were made using hemp. This means your pet can safely consume these products.

Giving Your Pet CBD Safely

Both CBD and marijuana offer potential medical benefits. The most important aspect is they are both considered safe. In certain U.S. states, CBD is illegal. You should research the laws for your state prior to giving your pet any CBD products. There are a lot of dog and cat owners who have stated CBD made an extremely positive difference for their pets, but the available research in this area is still limited. Your best option is to discuss the correct dosage for your pet with a vet.

If CBD is legal in your state, you can simply purchase products intended for pets. Some of the places you can purchase CBD such as online will provide you with dosage recommendations based on the weight of your pet. Ensuring you give your pet the correct dosage is incredibly important. The correct dosage offers your pet numerous medicinal benefits. An incorrect dosage may be ineffective or result in side effects.

The Importance of the Ingredients

For the most part, CBD is unregulated. This means finding the right product for your pet can be challenging. Whether you own a dog or a cat, you should read the label prior to purchasing the product. The ingredients should be clearly listed with no contaminants in the product. Your best options have labels stating Good Manufacturing Practices are being followed.

Whether the product is intended for humans or animals, every high-quality CBD product has a certificate of analysis. The creation of this document is performed by a third-party, independent lab. The document shows all of the lab results for the product. This includes the percentage of both THC and CBD in the product. The results of contaminant testing are also included. You should think twice before purchasing any product without a certificate of analysis.


The Behavior of Your Pet

The most important step you can take is paying close attention to the mood or behavior of your pet after they have consumed CBD. Side effects from CBD are generally not significant, but there is a potential reaction if your pet has been prescribed any drugs. If you see any changes in your pet, you should make an appointment with your vet. Your vet will know how to proceed. You should also research any potential reactions between CBD and any drugs you are giving your pet.

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Man With a Heart of Gold Takes his Paralyzed Dog for a Walk in a Custom Wagon

1/8/2020

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"She would do the same for me." is what a stranger with a heart of gold told Bryan Thompson, while out on a walk through the beautiful Shubie Park in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia.

This stranger, who is actually a pet health expert named Rodney Habib, has a beautiful white Shepherd named Sammie. This snow white 12 year old dog stole Rodney's heart and holds it captive, her unconditional love inspiring him to go above and beyond to give her the best quality of life imaginable.

On a cold winter day in Nova Scotia, Rodney bundled his faithful white Shepherd up in a bed with blankets and pillows, and pulled his precious cargo for a sunlit walk through the park. Her nose was busy sniffing all of the scents on the crisp air while her eyes absorbed the beautiful light of day while her devoted human gently pulled her along in her custom throne on wheels.

 Although Bryan had no idea who this kind man was, the dog world on Facebook recognized him instantly as his post went viral. Rodney has devoted years of his life to pursuing knowledge that helps his fellow pet parents and dog lovers take the best care of their furry family members possible.

Rodney runs an amazing, giving foundation called Paws for Change. Their mission is powerful: "Dogs & Cats deserve to live long, vibrant, and joyful lives. Together, with you, we're making this happen."

The world is in awe of Rodney's selfless, loving devotion to his beautiful dog. He even recently threw her a birthday party in her favorite park! With this story, we all wish Sammie a wonderful 12th birthday! Happy birthday, special girl!

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This Budweiser Ad Will Have You in Tears! "Someone Waits For You At Home, DON'T DRINK & DRIVE!"

12/31/2019

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To our dogs, we are everything. We are their source of everything good in the world, and most importantly we are their family. They rely on us to love them, take care of them, and keep them safe. Nobody can take care of them quite like us! Which is why this emotional ad hits close to home.

Your dog won't understand why you didn't come home last night... they won't understand that you didn't simply abandon them. Your dog won't understand any of it, and will feel the terrible sadness and anxiety of your sudden long (forever) absence. Make sure to make safe decisions for transportation during and after your celebrations! Stay safe, have fun, and arrive alive... you have a precious friend waiting for you to come home!

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Keep Your Dogs Out Of Truck Beds... 100,000 Die Every Year

12/20/2019

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Source: American Humane

According to American Humane more than 100,000 pets (mostly dogs) die every single year due to pet owners letting their animals ride loose in the bed of their truck - completely unsecured! The bed of a truck can be one of the most dangerous places for your dog to be when traveling by vehicle. There are countless terrible things that can happen to them there.

Not only can they slip, jump or fall out of the bed of a truck, but any debris or object can hit them while you're moving. The majority of dogs jumping from truck beds ends fatally, or leaves them permanently disabled from serious injury. It is extremely dangerous to allow them to ride there unsecured. The smallest jerk of your vehicle at a high enough speed can send them flying to the busy road behind you. It is simply NOT worth the risk!

The dog could see something and jump,” Steve Scherer from Quincy AC stated. “Most dogs are smart enough not to, though, but I would worry about getting in an accident – the dog’s going to be a projectile then. I would also worry about a dog being tethered in the back of a truck because it could jump over the side of a bed and hang itself.”
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Source: LocalKicks

Dog safety during vehicle transportation is important, because car accidents or hard movements can seriously injure or even kill your dog. There are multiple options for car safety one can explore when preparing their pet for travel. Each option has its own pros and cons, which is why it is important to do your own research for any option that interests you.

A strong, impact-resistant crate or kennel is a great way to keep your dog safe during car travel. There are also seat-belts and safety harnesses designed for car use. It is important to keep a collar on your dog with an ID tag to make sure you can be contacted in case of emergency and your dog gets loose.

Depending on where you live, allowing dogs to ride in your truck bed may actually be illegal. Regardless, it is so important to keep your beloved furry family members safe when traveling. Please do not let them ride unsecured in the bed of a truck!
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The World's Oldest Cat Celebrates His 30th Birthday

12/7/2019

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This beautiful, wise cat is named Rubble - and he is the oldest cat in the world! Rubble has lived in Exeter, England for his 30 years of life, along side his devoted owner Michele Foster. Michele got the adorable orange and white cat when he was just a kitten back in May of 1988 as a gift to herself for her birthday!

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Michele has treasured and pampered her beloved cat Rubble for all 30 years of his life, which she says is likely the reason why he has lived so long. She is so grateful for this precious animal, so has provided her with so many incredible years of love and companionship.

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Rubble is a relatively healthy cat, despite being on medication for high blood pressure. Michele does a wonderful job making sure he has all the veterinary care he needs, lots of food, water, and love. Her amazing care of Rubble is one of the reasons he is likely the oldest cat in the UK!

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Michele was asked whether or not she was willing to enter Rubble into the Guinness World Records, and she responded,
“He has plenty of life left in him yet, but I don’t think we will go down the Guinness World Record route as I am not sure he would like lots of people coming to see him or a fuss being made out of him. He is old now and would not like too much attention or be hassled. We would prefer if he was just left to live out his old age in peace.”
Cream Puff was the cat with the Guinness World Record title for oldest cat, and lived to be 38 years and 3 days old. With all of Michele's love and devotion to her feline friend, I am confident Rubble will exceed those years! I can't help but respect Michele's desire to protect Rubble from the potential stress of being analyzed and recorded for Guinness World Record. Rubble deserves the VERY best!

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Indoor cats have a life expectancy of 15 – 20 years, which makes Rubble's age even more impressive. It is quite amazing that he has lived such a comfortable, happy life with Michele. She clearly takes the very best care of him!

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With that, we wish Rubble a Happy 30th Birthday! Here is to many, many more years with your loving human Michele!

Please share Rubble's remarkable story, his birthday celebrations, along with these amazingly adorable photos of the oldest cat in the UK with your family and friends!
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CBD Is Becoming Popular, But Is It Safe for Your Pet? Six Ways CBD Can Help Your Pet

12/7/2019

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CBD and Your Pet

The interaction of CBD with your pets is a lot like the way it interacts with the human body. Every dog has an endocannabinoid system, just like humans do. This system uses sensors and receptors to establish communication throughout the body. This process is physiological, involving your pet's memory, mood, feelings of pain and appetite. Both humans and dogs have parts of the endocannabinoid system throughout their entire body. This is referred to as cannabinoid receptors.

CBD basically works in conjunction with cannabinoid receptors for the creation of beneficial effects on health. A study was conducted regarding dogs suffering from epilepsy. The results showed a decrease in epileptic seizures for 89 percent of the dogs in the study. This was due to the administration of CBD during a clinical trial. The doctors participating in the study stated although they believed additional research was necessary, using CBD was effective and safe for treating epileptic dogs.

The trial also showed CBD could be used for the treatment of neurological disorders in a variety of different animals including horses. This study barely scratched the surface of the potential health benefits of CBD for pets including cats and dogs. CBD has also been shown to be effective for relieving anxiety in pets.

CBD and Pain Relief


Studies have been conducted regarding CBD and pain relief for both humans and dogs. The results showed CBD offers powerful anti-inflammation effects and pain relief. This makes CBD a good option for treating pets with arthritis symptoms, general inflammation, pain related to nerves and joint pain. There is a reason CBD offers such powerful anti-inflammatory effects. This is believed to be connected to the way CBD interacts with the receptors.


CBD specifically interacts with the CB2 receptors. These receptors are located in the immune cells within the endocannabinoid system. This is believed to be the key reason CBD is effective for the treatment of so many different conditions. Once these receptors have been activated, the CBD is able to trigger a wide selection of immune responses. 

CBD and Nighttime Restlessness

CBD has calming and relaxing properties, This can help your cat or dog become comfortable enough to get a better night's sleep. This is especially beneficial for older cats and dogs who are suffering from anxiety that can make it harder to sleep due to restlessness. The last thing you want is to see your pet feeling uncomfortable, pacing or whining throughout the night. CBD has been shown to assist your pet in falling asleep and remaining asleep throughout the entire night. 

CBD and Neurodegenerative Diseases

CBD has been shown to be beneficial for pets with neurodegenerative diseases. Dogs are impacted by numerous different conditions such as nerve and spine issues and degenerative myelopathy. CBD has shown tremendous progress in all of these areas. CBD has been proven to be helpful for Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's and (ALS) Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis because it helps protect the cells of the brain from toxicity. CBD protects the brain of older dogs from cell death resulting from toxins and free radicals. 

Using CBD for an Anti-Convulsant

Research is currently being conducted regarding using CBD as a treatment for epilepsy and the associated symptoms for both dogs and humans. The results have been extremely promising. One of the most well known and acceptable uses of CBD for animals including dogs and cats is helping control epileptic seizures, spasms, tics and tremors. Even though there is no current scientific explanation regarding exactly how CBD works for epilepsy, numerous studies have shown CBD does help manage many of the symptoms of epilepsy. CBD also helps manage multiple sclerosis spasticity. 

Slowing Down Tumor Growth with CBD

As your pet ages, the risk of malicious and cancerous tumors increases. Unfortunately, these tumors are fatal in the majority of cases. You already know there is currently no cure for cancer. The most frequently performed treatment for both humans and pets is chemotherapy. Unfortunately, this results in a lot of debilitating and negative side effects. This includes:

• Lethargy, fatigue and tiredness 
• Vomiting 
• Diarrhea 
• Loss of appetite

There is more and more research demonstrating CBD may provide unique effects for anticancer. This includes decreasing the size of the tumors and providing protection against the appearance of more tumors. 
 
CBD and Loss of Appetite

If your cat or dog is refusing to eat their food or has begun consuming less food than usual, adding CBD and making a change to their daily diet may help. CBD has already been proven to enhance the appetites of pets. CBD may also be able to decrease both vomiting and nausea. Both of these symptoms are serious for dogs and humans. This can cause a loss of appetite, fatigue, dehydration, rapid loss of weight and a lot more.

Aminopentamide, chlorpromazine and acepromazine all have serious and strong side effects for your pet. CBD may be a much better option. You can purchase natural fish oils containing CBD to help your pet without the nasty side effects. 

The Additional Benefits

CBD also:
• Improves joint mobility
• Relieves itchy and dry skin 
• Provides natural anti-inflammation 
• Supports your pet's immune system 
• Soothes the pain of arthritis 
• Promotes a healthy coat and skin 
• Offers natural anti-oxidants 
• Is a natural source of vitamins 
 
Your Pet and CBD

CBD can be extremely effective and useful for pets including cats and dogs. CBD is a good option for helping your pet with numerous conditions including pain, seizures and sleeplessness. Your first choice does not have to be expensive drugs with potentially long-term or dangerous side effects. You can try CBD first. CBD can offer your pet the help they need without any of the negative side effects associated with prescription drugs. 
 
The best way to find out if CBD can help your furry little friend is to try it. You can even combine CBD with a highly nutritious supplement. When you see results, you can make this a regular routine for your pet. 

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Is CBD Oil Good for Your Pet?

11/19/2019

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If you are as worried as pet owners usually are for their pets, you want your puppy, kitten or another pet to be safe and sound. So, you are always looking for ways to ensure your pet is healthy and protected. And, you have probably come across the topic of CBD for animals, since it’s a really hot topic in the last few years. If you are interested in learning more about it, here are several things that will help you understand the effect of CBD on your pet and whether or not you should give it to your pet.To many people having a pet is like having another kid at home. It’s because pets, just like humans, eat, drink, get sick, suffer from health conditions, love and need to be loved, and have feelings. That’s why people get emotionally attached to their pets and take care of them as if they are their kids.

So, it’s no wonder that pet owners take good care of their pets and always provide them with all the things they need to live a happy life. One of those things is their health. It’s something pet owners pay a lot of attention to because they really love their pets and want them to be healthy. That’s why they take them to the vet when they don’t feel well and give them medications when they are sick. And that’s the main reason why many pet owners started giving CBD for anxiety, pain, and other health conditions to their dogs.

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Copyright: Unsplash / author: ericjamesward / I License: CC0 Public Domain
What is CBD Oil?

CBD (cannabidiol) oil is an oil derived from the plant Cannabis sativa. Cannabidiol is actually a cannabinoid, a component of the cannabis. And, unlike its relative, THC, CBD doesn’t make you high. Therefore, it’s safe to use, both by humans and pets.

The CBD oil affects your body through the endocannabinoid system, which all mammals have. In that way, it helps your body maintain homeostasis. Having in mind that humans and pets (as mammals) have the same endocannabinoid system, it’s believed that the CBD oil has the same or similar health benefits on them as on us.
 

Is CBD Oil Beneficial to Your Pets’ Health?

The truth is that there aren’t many studies conducted on CBD’s health benefits on animals. Yet, due to having an endocannabinoid system, as we do, it’s assumed that CBD oil has more or less that same health benefits on animals. Therefore, the possible health benefits for animals include:

  • Relieving pain
  • Reducing inflammation
  • Relieving anxiety and stress
  • Reducing seizures
  • Preventing vomiting
  • Increasing appetite
  • Preventing cancer
  • Promoting homeostasis
 
These are the most common health benefits of CBD oil on animals. As you can see they are more or less the same with those of humans. However, in order to find out the exact effects and confirm these benefits, more research needs to be done on animals.

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Copyright: Unsplash / author: tranmautritam / I License: CC0 Public Domain

Is CBD Oil Safe for Your Pet?


We are sure you want your pet to be safe, so you probably wonder is CBD oil is safe for it? As the World Health Organization reports, pure CBD is safe for animals. Moreover, it’s well-accepted by them. However, you should always consult with your vet regarding giving CBD oil to your pet, especially if it takes another medication or supplement.

But, since there aren’t many studies carried out on the CBD oil’s safety for animals, you need to pay close attention to the dosage and quality of the product. In terms of the dosage, there isn’t evidence on how much you should give to your pet. That’s why, if you decide to give CBD oil to your pet, you should start with a very small dose and monitor the pet’s reaction.

When it comes to the quality of the product, it’s very important to buy products only from trusted manufacturers. One way to find out whether the manufacturer is credible is to see if they support research and provides a certificate of analysis for the product they sell. In this way, you will be sure you buy a quality product.

Moreover, it will ensure you buy a product that doesn’t contain THC because this cannabinoid is toxic to cats and dogs. So, buy products with 0% THC and look for THC poisoning symptoms, such as diarrhea, vomiting, restlessness, instability, and lethargy.

Once you decide to give CBD oil to your pet, you should look for a quality CBD product. You can find different types of CBD products for pets, such as CBD oil which you can put under the tongue of your pet or add to its food, edibles, such as chewable treats, and topical creams, which you can apply to their skin. When choosing the CBD product, have in mind that each type of product differently affects your pet. So, choose wisely.

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Is CBD Safe for Dogs? 5 Benefits CBD Has for Your Dog

11/6/2019

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Cannabidiol, or CBD for short, is becoming wildly popular as an over-the-counter health supplement for both people and their pets.

However, many people still do not fully understand what CBD is, how it works or how to take it for the best results.

Even as more veterinarians and animal health advocates promote CBD for dogs, some pet owners continue to wonder "Is CBD safe for dogs?" Here, it is only natural you want to be sure whatever you give your precious furry best friend is safe, healthy and beneficial.

So let's take a closer look at CBD for dogs - is it safe? If so, what benefits can it offer your pup?


What Is CBD, Exactly?

CBD stands for Cannabidiol, which is the main active ingredient in a certain plants in the Cannabis genus of plants.

And here is where a great deal of the confusion lies. As the National Institutes of Health (NIH) explains, different plant varietals have different types of active compounds

In some cases, this difference is native - naturally-derived. In other cases, this difference is cultivated - human-made. In other words, some varietals of Cannabis have never been found growing wild, but rather have been domesticated by botanists to have higher concentrations of certain active ingredients

What is important for you, the dog owner, to know is that the varietal that is strong in CBD, or Cannabidiol, is different from the varietal that is strong in THC, or delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, the active ingredient in marijuana that creates the notorious "high.

No plant in the Cannabis genus will ever be completely void of either CBD or THC, and besides these two compounds, there are literally hundreds more that are still being examined and studied by botanists.

But CBD products made from plant varietals (often called "hemp") that are high in the active ingredient CBD, which does not cause a "high," must also have 0.3 percent or less THC content to be sold legally as an over-the-counter product or health supplement in the United States.


Is CBD Safe for Dogs?

CBD taken on its own has many potential health benefits for both people and pets. However, it is important to know that use of CBD is still in its infancy and a lot that is not yet known.

For this reason, always talk with your dog's veterinarian before starting your dog on XO Hemp CBD. Start with the very lowest possible dose until you see how your dog responds

CBD can be taken in a variety of forms. Using oil, tincture or liquid ensures you can carefully control the dose

This is why the American Kennel Club veterinary staff recommends CBD tincture, oil or liquid over any other form for use with dogs.

Common temporary short-term side effects of using CBD with dogs can include dry mouth, drowsiness and low blood pressure. There may be other side effects that are not yet documented so always watch your pup carefully.


5 Potential Benefits of CBD for Dogs

These are five of the best-known and most promising potential health benefits of CBD for dogs.


1. Epilepsy.

Dogs can get epilepsy just like people can. And just like some people don't find relief of symptoms from traditional medications, so too can some dogs continue to suffer from drug resistant epilepsy.

In 2017, the Canine Health Foundation announced a clinical study to explore the use of CBD to treat canine epilepsy.

Since nearly one-third of dogs with epilepsy do not find relief with traditional canine medications, this study provides new, fresh hope to epileptic dogs and their owners. 


2. Pain.

According to PetMD, one of the most important potential health benefits CBD has for canines is in the area of pain management.

Many traditional medications used for pain relief in canines come with strong side effects. In some breeds that have higher known sensitivity to drugs, these side effects can even be deadly.

For this reason, the search continues for alternatives to help ease pain in canines, whether from surgery, injury, cancer, illness or some other reason. CBD can moderate pain symptoms without the side effects of traditional pain relievers by blocking messages about pain sensations at their source - in the brain.


3. Arthritis.

Arthritis is another health condition that dogs and their people share in common. Along with pain, arthritis can trigger stiffness, lameness and sometimes immobility.

Cornell University conducted research to determine the impact of CBD therapy for dogs afflicted with osteoarthritis. The double-blind study results were extremely promising.

Dogs that were given the CBD (versus the placebo) showed significant improvement to quality of life with significant reduction of pain.


4. Stress and anxiety.

While some dog breeds can cope with periods of alone-time, other breeds cannot tolerate this hardly at all.

For dogs that have been abused or traumatized, or puppies removed from the litter too early in life, managing more severe separation anxiety can often make the difference between a new forever home and euthanasia.

CBD is now being studied as an aid to stress and anxiety in dogs, whether from separation anxiety specifically or from some other source, like seasonal fireworks.

The Canine Journal reported that CBD shows promise as a treatment for canine separation anxiety, general anxiety and stress.


5. Gastrointestinal distress.

More and more dogs are presenting with gastrointestinal (GI) distress. For many dogs, GI distress is associated with food or environmental allergies. In some dogs, GI disturbances can be linked to emotional anxiety or stress.

In still other dogs, the cause of GI distress comes from other health issues such as colitis, gastritis or inflammatory bowel disease.

When dogs experience gastrointestinal distress, it can lead to loss of appetite and weight loss, aggression or depression and plenty of elimination issues.

Some veterinarians are now recommending CBD as a potential aid to alleviating the symptoms of GI distress in dogs.


If you would like to try CBD for your dog, start by talking with your canine veterinarian. You may just discover CBD provides for improved life quality, reduced pain and a happier pet dog!

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Caring for a Pregnant Dog

10/18/2019

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Loving your dog is unconditional, but when they are pregnant, you will be doing, even more, to make sure that they are healthy, safe and can deliver their puppies in the best shape possible.

There are many factors to take on board when it comes to caring for a pregnant dog, so it’s best to be as informed as possible so that you can use this knowledge to help your four-legged friend during the stages of dog pregnancy

So, before they go and bring some adorable new puppies into the world, here are some top pointers to bear in mind to assist your expectant pooch.
 
1.     Is your dog vaccinated?
Even before your pet is pregnant, it is vital to ensure that she is vaccinated. If they aren’t up to date on her annual vaccines then complications could follow after the pregnancy.

Essentially, when the puppies are born they suckle on their mothers for milk, and in the milk is where the protection comes. However, this will only be able to happen if she has already been fully protected.

Additionally, puppies can contract the herpes virus from their mother so you must make sure that she has had the appropriate vaccination for this while she is pregnant in order to prevent them from becoming infected at birth. 
 
2.     Think about diet and nutrition
As soon as the 42nd day of pregnancy arrives, the puppies will then start to develop at a rapid rate; therefore, their mum will have to begin eating puppy food. The reason for this is because puppy food contains more protein and energy than regular adult food and this will benefit her.

Provide your pregnant pooch with three to four smaller meals per day because this will help to prevent discomfort when her puppies press on her stomach.
 
3.     Be on top of worming
When dogs are expecting puppies, they need to be treated with a wormer called Fenbendazole each day. This must start from day 40 of the pregnancy right up until two days prior to the puppies being born.

Doing this will stop the puppies contracting getting worms from their mum when they’re born.
 
4.     Re-evaluate exercise
Even pregnant dogs require exercise. Remember though, they are carrying extra weight and strain on their bodies with these little pups inside of them so it’s important not to go OTT with the physical activity.
Once the 30th day of pregnancy arrives, cut the exercise right back to just short walks so that your mother-to-be doesn’t get too tired.
 
5.     Think about preparing for giving birth (whelping)
Preparing a whelping box for your pregnant pet and putting it in a tranquil space in the home is essential.

Think about where the best place to ‘make a nest’ would be for your dog and her new puppies. Simply get a large box lined with some puppy pads so that you can switch them for clean ones when the inevitable toilet accidents happen, and then fill it with some clean, comfy blankets and towels.
 
6.     The whelping processes
Keep the whelping area as cosy and comforting as you can. You’ll need to keep the room warm so that mum is as relaxed as possible and also so that the puppies don’t fall ill when they are born. The box itself needs to be around 85°F for the first 2-3 days, and then can be lowered to 75-80°F depending on the surrounding temperature.

Doggy labours often begin with mums starting off panting and being generally restless. The contractions will start and you should see a clear fluid come from the vulva which will then be followed by the first puppy of the litter.

The labour can be as short as several minutes but can last up to a few hours. A standard time though is between 20 and 60 minutes between puppies being born.
 
7.     Puppy care considerations
Once the pups are delivered, they’re checked and healthy, they’ll need their first worming treatment at two weeks old.

Take note of the weight of each puppy; you can use kitchen scales for this and then inform the veterinarian so that they can work out how much wormer each pup will have given to them.

The puppies will be ready for weaning at between six and eight weeks old. They need their first vaccine as soon as they reach eight weeks of age. At this time, the vet will also provide them with a general check to ensure they are healthy.

If at any point, during or after the pregnancy, you are concerned with the welfare of your dog of her puppies, you should call the vets immediately.

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Consult with your veterinarian before applying any of the information contained within this website, its blog, or via consultations. K9 Instinct recommends involving your veterinarian in any plans to utilize the information provided by K9 Instinct, and cannot be held accountable for any damages incurred by the use or misuse of any information provided by K9 Instinct. The guidance of your veterinarian is strongly recommended!