To find out that your dog has cancer is absolutely devastating. Despite the impressive advancements in veterinary medicine, cancers such as melanoma, hemangiosarcoma, bone cancer, and mammary cancer are still difficult to handle. Surgery and chemotherapy are common ways to treat these conditions. Besides, some vets often recommend special hospitals where dogs spend their last days in a comfortable environment with pain killers and other supplements.
CBD products are trending in human medicine these days. Human patients with cancer have been known to benefit from CBD, but what if you give CBD to your dog? Is cannabidiol safe for dogs with cancer? Happy Garden will try to cover these and other questions.
We have promising information on CBD and its effects on cancer from animal and human medical studies.
According to research published on the Canine Health Foundation website, CBD-rich whole hemp extract showed anti-cancer results combined with chemotherapy drugs. In another study, cannabidiol paired with a low concentration of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) also demonstrated encouraging outcomes in reducing the replication of neoplastic cells.
Dogs, like humans, are mammals, which means that they have an endocannabinoid network made up of receptors responsible for inflammation, anxiety, and pain. So when CBD bumps into the dog’s endocannabinoid system, resembling the effects of cannabinoids naturally present in the body, CBD helps to manage different cancer-related symptoms. So CBD can ease:
These are common signs in dogs suffering from cancer.
Some people use CBD as a preventive measure, others for overall wellness. The same is true for dogs. In a lot of cases, people and dogs with arthritis feel less pain in their affected joints.
CBD’s anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties serve as a shield against viruses and infections. So by reducing inflammation, CBD may prevent cancer, arthritis, digestive issues, and more.
Some research also suggests that cannabidiol can be used to supplement gastrointestinal treatment. Namely, it can reduce inflammation in the gut, boost digestion and help dogs prone to diarrhea.
Many dog owners in the US use CBD tinctures to help their furry friends cope with thunderstorms or endure a trip on a plane or train when they take them on vacation.
CBD products for dogs, cats, and pets usually come in oils/tinctures and treats. For dogs that are OK if you administer it straight to their mouth under the tongue (encourage the pup not to swallow oil but keep it for a few seconds) from a dropper is the best. It is also considered a straightforward intake method (sublingual) in humans, meaning CBD directly enters the bloodstream. Or, oils can also be mixed into dog food and treats.
For the best result, CBD oil for pets should be organic and contain either zero level or only a legally allowed amount of THC under 0.3%.
Studies have shown that a psychoactive profile of THC caused the death of brain cancer cells in mice. Yet, despite these promising results, the effect of THC on dogs is being studied. So we warn pet owners to be careful with CBD products containing THC.
On the other hand, the same benefit was demonstrated in humans when only cannabidiol was applied – cancerous cells were self-destructed.
Much of the research we have on CBD usage in humans and dogs shows only few adverse events. However, more research is needed to establish this firmly.
CBD side effects are possible. If your dog demonstrates signs of vomiting, diarrhea, dry mouth, dizzying, you should stop giving him any further doses and consult your vet.
CBD’s anti-inflammatory contents may help your dog with cancer, but you should keep in mind that it isn’t meant to cure it. Besides, CBD may interact with chemotherapeutic drugs, so you should talk to your veterinarian oncologist before starting to give cannabidiol to your dog.
CBD is most commonly administered as an oil or tincture you can add to your dog’s meal or as a daily treat with a tasty flavor your dog is likely to love.
CBD dosage for dogs is important, though overdosing can trigger nausea, dry mouth, dizziness, and other side effects.
General guidelines for giving CBD oil include the following:
You can also calculate dosage based on your dog’s weight – 1-2 mg of CBD per 10 pounds.
The best practice is to start with small doses and add more as your dog adjusts.
Cancer-related symptoms can be caused by cancer itself or chemotherapy treatment. Unlike humans, dogs typically cope well with the side effects related to the treatment. However, chemotherapy, in some cases, is not the best option.
With supplements like CBD oil for dogs with cancer, it may slow the growth of certain cancers to keep your pup comfortable. If your dog suffers from cancer or is currently under treatment, talk to your veterinarian to see if CBD is right for him.
We are proud to say we know all about our CBD products’ source. Our US manufacturers get hemp plants from farms where it is cultivated using organic processes. So we know how it is sourced and have a third party to confirm its quality. Happy Garden CBD formulations for dogs come in the form of tinctures and biscuit treats. They contain healthy components making them a great supplement to help boost your dog’s immune systems and relieve pain.
