Conventional pharmaceuticals commonly used to treat pain sometimes have a negative impact on the immune system, GI tract, liver, and kidneys. Additionally, they don’t always work as well as we would like them to – for humans as well as our pets.
Of all the uses of cannabis in human and veterinary medicine, pain relief is perhaps the most well documented. Research trials have shown profound pain-relieving effects from cannabis for a variety of medical conditions. Extracts of THC and CBD have been shown to provide relief in human patients with advanced cancer pain as well as in those with nerve related pain.
Studies evaluating the efficacy of cannabis in treating arthritis in dogs have been completed as well. A recent study from Cornell University showed reduction in pain scores in dogs with arthritis – with no negative side effects – when treated with CBD vs. placebo. In a more practical sense, many veterinarians and pet owners have seen the positive effects of medical cannabis for the treatment of arthritis and other forms of pain in animals. The research merely confirms what many of us have seen first-hand.
CBD Dosing For Pets
- 0.1 mg CBD per 1kg of body weight twice daily for dogs.
- 0.2mg CBD per 1kg of body weight twice daily for cats.
- Start low and slowly increase the dose every 4-7 days.
- Frequently doses nearer the lower end of the range are effective.
- Higher doses of CBD may be beneficial in certain circumstances.
Typically cats will take more CBD per kg of body weight because their metabolisms are faster then a dogs. Just as in humans we recommend going low and slow as you find the right dosage for your pet. Its important to be observant of your pets behaviour because they can’t tell you how they feel!
We also carry a product suited to horses. Despite their size horses don’t need to have as concentrated dose of CBD as many other animals because of their metabolism. Start with 3-5 drops and observe!
Our new product line also includes balms for paws, noses and as treatment for hotspots.
If you think CBD can help your pet out or if you have any questions contact us!