The Endocannabinoid System and our Furry Friends
Did you know that all animals, except insects, have an endocannabinoid system or ECS? That means that our beloved pets have cannabinoid receptors located in their brain and throughout their body that play a crucial role in regulating various physiological processes. This multifaceted and complex system exists naturally in our bodies and the bodies of all mammals, and it is responsible for making chemicals called cannabinoids, completely independent of whether we have consumed cannabis.
The ECS has many positive functions within the body that science is still trying to understand, but we do know that because our beloved pets have an ECS, they benefit when they use CBD - just like we do. One way to think of how the ECS works is that when cells send signals of stress, pain, and inflammation, the ECS works as a switchboard that receives input from these cells and in turns checks these processes back into balance. Science defines the ECS as one that helps maintain homeostasis, or balance, within the body. To read more about this fascinating system in your body and how it interacts with CBD read “CBD and the ECS”
What is CBD?
Cannabidiol is the molecule that is abbreviated as CBD. It can be extracted from either the marijuana or hemp plant. Here at Doc D’s we only use USA-grown heirloom hemp extract. Unlike the THC found in marijuana plants, CBD is non-intoxicating so it doesn’t give you a “high” that may affect or alter perception. Furthermore, our extraction process produces what is called Broad Spectrum Hemp Extract because it removes all the THC, but keeps all the rest of the plant compounds. To read more about our extraction process and how the various plant compounds work together to produce the “entourage effect” read The Entourage Effect and Broad Spectrum Hemp Extract
Possible Benefits of CBD for Pets
Let’s discuss what kind of benefits you may expect when you start using CBD with your pets.
Pain Management: CBD has been studied for its potential anti-inflammatory and analgesic (pain-relieving) properties. Pharmacokinetics, Safety, and Clinical Efficacy of Cannabidiol Treatment in Osteoarthritic Dogs.
Calming Properties: CBD has potential calming effects which may help pets cope with loud noises, separation anxiety or changes in routine. Although not specific to pets, learn more about how scientists investigated the use of CBD in this case series Cannabidiol in Anxiety and Sleep: A Large Case Series.
Skin Conditions: Topical application of CBD (and its carrier oil in our compound, coconut oil) may be helpful in managing certain skin conditions and allergies in pets.
Doc D’s CBD Pet Spray
With his Doctorate in chemistry, Doc D made sure to develop a recipe for our furry friends that is simple and safe so our CBD Pet Spray contains CBD and organic coconut oil. Why Doc D chose coconut oil is because it contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) which is an easily digestible saturated fat and has been found to be safe for pets. Additionally coconut oil contains lauric acid, which has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal properties and some research indicates it can help heal digestive disorders and improve brain energy and mental function in older pets.
Because we have formulated the recipe to be used as a spray, you can use it externally too! CBD and Coconut Oil have been known to help skin conditions and in our pets it can help with hot spots, bites, stings, or itchy, dry skin. It also helps in making our animals coat glossy and sleek so they are sure to shine with their newfound health!
Is CBD Safe for my pets?
While research in the use of CBD is still in its early stages, there is a developing body of evidence that present the potential therapeutic benefits as well as the safety in its use for our furry friends. If you want to learn more, we recommend this peer-reviewed article from the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association titled, “Cannabis in Veterinary Medicine: A Critical Review”
As always, it’s important to consult with a veterinarian before incorporating any new supplement into your pet's routine. Follow the dosage instructions recommended on the bottle and ask your veterinarian for additional guidance to determine the appropriate dosage for your pet, monitor for potential side effects, and ensure that CBD is used as part of a comprehensive approach to your pet's health