A study by Colorado State University shows that Cannabidiol (CBD) oil, an ingredient found in cannabis sativa, may be effective in treating pain, seizures, and anxiety in dogs. The use of CBD for pets came from the popularity of using medical marijuana to treat the same issues in humans.
CBD is also more accessible than before, with states like Colorado legalizing the use of marijuana. States like Utah allow prescription marijuana to be bought from dispensaries. Even though cannabidiol has proven health benefits, there are still misconceptions about its effects on both humans and animals.
Misconceptions and Benefits
The hesitation of some owners and veterinarians to use CBD for pets comes from the negative effects of other substances in cannabis sativa, namely Tetrahydrocannabinol or THC. Cannabis sativa has two types of plants: marijuana and hemp. Both plants have CBD and THC. It’s important to know the difference between the two plants to understand their effects.
Chemicals in Cannabis Sativa
- THC causes the “high” that humans get when they ingest marijuana. It is also the chemical that helps with nausea, low appetite, and muscle tremors. Dogs are more sensitive to THC than humans are. A small dose could lead to immediate intoxication for dogs. Severe intoxication could even lead to seizures and comatose.
- CBD, on the other hand, treats pain, nausea, seizures, and even mental illness without the high that THC brings. Companies like koodegras.com claim that CBD actually negates THC’s psychoactive effects. Studies show that CBD, when used correctly, offers the same positive effects for dogs without any severe side-effects.
Types of Cannabis Sativa
- Marijuana is primarily used for its THC. It is a psychoactive drug that is used for recreational or medicinal purposes.
- Hemp has mostly industrial applications. It’s often used to make clothes, paper,