When Would You Not Use CBD For Your Dog?

You’ve heard of the benefit of CBD for your dog but what about the cons? Are there actually any cons to giving CBD to your dog? Let’s find out.

What is CBD?

CBD – also known as cannabidiol – is derived from either cannabis or hemp. CBD derived from cannabis typically contains THC (the compound found in marijuana that gives you the “high” effect) while hemp does not contain any THC.

CBD for pets are often found in the form of pills, oils, chews, or treats. Since the majority of CBD is derived from the hemp plant, it is quite easy to obtain and can often be purchased at your local pet store or online.

Pet owners often turn to CBD when looking for a safer alternative to common drugs that can be filled with potentially harmful side effects.

What are the Benefits?

Before we look at the cons of CBD, let’s look at the benefits. CBD can help dog’s suffering from inflammation, convulsions, anxiety, pain, stress, cancer and more.

Many owners give their dog CBD to help with anxiety. Dogs suffering from separation anxiety or other types of anxiety can benefit from CBD since it acts as a anti-anxiety supplement and helps dogs get through stressful periods or events.

CBD also helps reduce pain and inflammation – including chronic inflammation and arthritis – as well as more serious issues like neurodegenerative diseases, seizures, epilepsy and even cancer. In fact, several studies show that CBD can have an anti-tumor effect and has been known to prevent cancer cells from growing.

What are the Cons?

As with any supplement, with the good comes the bad. While there are not many cons and adverse side effects to CBD, there are a few to be aware of if you choose to add this supplement to your dog’s diet.

For example, if you give your dog too much CBD, they can become lethargic or depressed.  In addition to becoming less active and less enthusiastic, your dog can begin excessively drooling, vomiting, shaking, or becoming easily agitated when given too much CBD.  But, when given in the correct dosage, your dog will most likely be perfectly fine with CBD.

However, it is important to be aware of the warning signs when dogs are having an adverse reaction to CBD. While these side effects have been reported by humans who took CBD, they can be translated to your dog. These symptoms include:

• Dry Mouth: While your dog can’t tell you if they have dry mouth, you can typically tell if they begin to increase their water consumption. Increased thirst can also be a sign of a more serious problem – such as poisoning or diabetes – so it is important to contact your vet if your dog is drinking more water than usual.
• Low Blood Pressure: Your vet will be able to tell you if your dog has low blood pressure during their next check-up. If you have been giving your dog CBD and they have low blood pressure, it could be a sign to stop.
• Lightheadedness: If your dog appears disoriented or dizzy, make sure to take them to the vet immediately. 

Before adding CBD to your dog’s diet, be sure to chat with your veterinarian to ensure it is safe to add to your dog’s diet.

Will Corrente is an advisor, consultant, and dog care entrepreneur. He is the Founder of Pet Venture Capital Management and a trusted authority and an expert in the dog care industry. Will has over 15 years of experience as the owner and operator of Very Important Paws Dog Resort in West Palm Beach, FL. Copyright 2020 k9vitatherapy.com