You may have heard some buzz lately about CBD Oil.  It has been quite a hot topic in both the human and canine communities.  But what exactly is CBD Oil and what is all this chatter about?

CBD - or cannabidiol - is a compound derived from cannabis and hemp plants.  After extraction, CBD is mixed with a carrier oil such as coconut or hemp which is how it is delivered to us.  If you are in the market for CBD, remember that you get what you pay for. Don’t always opt for the least expensive oil and try to choose a product that is organic.

Because it does not contain THC - or delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol  - it does not have the psychoactive effects that marijuana does. This is why it is growing in popularity as a treatment or remedy for various health ailments.  CBD is known to relieve chronic pain, depression and anxiety. It can also potentially aid with cancer and cancer-treatment related symptoms such as nausea and loss of appetite and is thought to contribute to cardiac health and prevent diabetes.  

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Additionally, CBD has been known to help control epilepsy/seizures - even in canines.  According to the AKC website…
“The AKC Canine Health Foundation (CHF) is currently sponsoring a study, through the Colorado State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, that will evaluate the use of CBD in treatment-resistant epileptic dogs. The CHF hopes that this will be the first study to gain scientific data on the use of CBD in dogs with this condition.”  Learn more about what the AKC has to say HERE.  

It is important to note, however, that there is not enough research or any concrete data on some of the proposed positive benefits of CBD for humans or canines, nor is there much information on the effects of CBD in dogs.  Possible side effects can include dry mouth, lowered blood pressure, lightheadedness and drowsiness. The FDA has not approved CBD so there is no specific information on dosage or frequency of use in humans. Thus the same is true at this time for dogs.  If you do chose to use CBD for your furry friend, it is recommended to start with administering a small amount - but remember to always check with your veterinarian first.

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