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As our furry friends enter their senior years, they often face challenges that remind us of the natural aging process we all go through. From the stiff mornings to the anxious evenings, aging can take its toll. But what if there was a natural ally in this journey?
Enter CBD, a compound that has shown promise in supporting the health and happiness of our aging pets. Let's explore how CBD can be a beacon of support.
How CBD Can Help Senior Dogs
Pain and inflammation management
As dogs age, the wear and tear on their bodies often lead to pain and inflammation, especially in conditions like arthritis. This can make those cherished walks or playful moments increasingly difficult. Traditional treatments often rely on NSAIDs or other pain medications, which, while effective, can come with side effects.
Research into CBD has shown promising results in managing pain and reducing inflammation, offering a potentially safer alternative to traditional pain management strategies. By interacting with the endocannabinoid system, CBD may help alleviate the discomfort and improve the quality of life for our senior dogs, making each step a little easier.
Neurological health and function
Neurological health is paramount for a dog's quality of life, with conditions like cognitive dysfunction syndrome (akin to Alzheimer's in humans) and epilepsy being particularly challenging. Traditional approaches include medications that target symptoms but may not offer a comprehensive solution. CBD's neuroprotective properties and its potential to reduce the frequency of seizures have been subjects of interest in veterinary research.
Studies suggest CBD can play a role in supporting neurological health, offering a gleam of hope for managing these conditions more effectively and improving overall brain function.
Behavioural health and well being
Anxiety, stress, and sleep disturbances can significantly impact a senior dog's life, making them feel uneasy in their own home. While behavioral therapies and pharmaceuticals are common treatments, they're not without their drawbacks. CBD has emerged as a natural option for promoting calmness and improving sleep.
Research indicates that CBD can reduce anxiety in animals, helping to soothe the nerves of our senior companions. Moreover, its potential to improve sleep quality can ensure they rest well, recharging for another day of adventures, even if a little slower than before.
Digestive and appetite support
Maintaining a healthy appetite and digestive system becomes increasingly important as dogs age. Traditional appetite stimulants and digestive aids may help but can carry side effects. CBD's interaction with the endocannabinoid system has been noted for its ability to stimulate appetite and support digestive health.
Although direct studies in dogs are limited, anecdotal evidence and research in other species suggest CBD could help encourage eating and alleviate digestive issues, ensuring our senior dogs maintain a balanced diet for their health and happiness.
Cancer and disease management
Facing a diagnosis of cancer or managing chronic diseases is a daunting aspect of caring for a senior dog. Alongside conventional treatments like chemotherapy,
CBD has been researched for its potential anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. Preliminary studies, including those referenced by the National Cancer Institute, have explored CBD's role in possibly slowing tumor growth and providing relief from symptoms and treatment side effects. This area of research offers a hopeful outlook on integrating CBD into comprehensive care plans, aiming to improve the well-being and longevity of our beloved pets.
How To Use CBD For Senior Dogs
With all CBD products for dogs, the lowest dose that provides the desired result is best. But because CBD's effects increase as the dose increases, you'll want to think carefully before making a choice for your senior dog.
A good starting point for senior dogs with mild issues is CBD soft chews. We offer them in three varieties: calming, mobility, and skin and coat. They contain a small amount of CBD alongside science-backed natural ingredients tailored to your senior dog's specific issue. Start with the low dose, given twice a day around mealtimes, and then work up every three days until you see results.
If your dog is dealing with moderate issues, CBD products that offer an amount of CBD for every pound of your dog's weight are a great choice. Relievet offers either oils or treats, and the one you pick will depend on your dog.
If your dog will allow you to place a dropper in their mouth, then Relievet CBD oil is the gold standard.
In our experience, most dogs will benefit from 1-2mg/kg (0.45-0.9 mg/lb) CBD oil of their weight twice daily, which is our regular dose range on the dose calculator. Start at the lower end, and work your way up every three days until you see results. To get the best results, place the dropper in the side of their mouth or anywhere that isn't on their tongue.
For those more challenging pups, you can place CBD oil in their food or on a treat, but this way, a lot is lost through digestion. Instead, you might want to try our CBD dog treats, as they have a higher dose of CBD. Pick a jar based on your dog's weight, and give treats twice daily, increasing every three days until you see results.
Before using CBD and other medications
While we always recommend working with your vet before using CBD, it is essential if your dog uses other medications. Once you get the go-ahead, we suggest starting CBD oil at our very low dose and then monitoring your dog and increasing it gradually over time. Relievet's CBD oil is designed to make it easy to start low and gradually increase over time.
Are There Any Side Effects?
CBD (cannabidiol) is generally well-tolerated in dogs, with few side effects reported. However, as with any supplement or medication, some potential side effects can occur. The most common side effects of CBD in dogs include:
Drowsiness: The calming effect of CBD can also lead to slight drowsiness, especially in the case of higher doses.
Lowered Blood Pressure: High doses of CBD have been linked to a temporary drop in blood pressure. Even though the drop is small, it might create a brief feeling of light-headedness.
Gastrointestinal Upset: Some dogs might experience an upset stomach or other gastrointestinal discomfort, although this is less common.
Changes in Appetite: CBD can increase or decrease appetite, depending on the dog's reaction.
Always use high-quality CBD products designed for pets to ensure they are free from harmful additives and contain the correct dosage. If you observe any side effects, you can reduce the dose of CBD or stop using the product, and they will subside.
When to see a vet
There are some situations when it's essential to see a vet. If your dog shows any of the following signs, you should schedule a visit with your vet:
- Persistent pain or limping
- Sudden changes in behavior or mood
- Loss of appetite or weight
- Difficulty in urination or defecation
- Disorientation or wobbly walking
In Conclusion
In integrating CBD into the care routine of a senior dog, it's essential to approach with care, consulting with a veterinarian to ensure it complements existing treatments and meets your pet's unique needs. The journey of aging with our furry friends can be filled with challenges, but by exploring natural avenues like CBD, we can offer them a more comfortable, joyful, and supported golden age.
