Written and researched by James Burney
Arthritis is an extremely common problem, specifically in older dogs and more so in large breeds. It normally leaves them in constant pain and very uncomfortably mobile. Because of the inflammation and pain, arthritis will cause a decrease in their mobility and make them very reluctant to do things they used to enjoy doing. Classic therapies for arthritis rely on the use of NSAIDs and opioids, often leading to grave side effects like hepatic damage, gastrointestinal problems, and a predisposition toward chemical dependence. These undesirable drawbacks have driven pet owners and veterinarians to seek out alternative treatments that are effective and cause fewer side effects.
The latest promising natural substitute has been hemp oil, especially CBD oil. Derived from the hemp plant, CBD oil has a connection with mammals’ ECS that helps modulate pain and inflammation without producing THC, cannabis’ primary psychoactive component, hence being a safe, alluring option for chronic pain and inflammation management in dogs suffering from arthritis.
Recent studies and clinical trials provide compelling evidence for hemp oil use in dogs with arthritis. If one looks at the study by Cornell University, for example, it is well established that CBD oil given to dogs has significant improvement in pain relief and mobility. These findings are further supported by many other research indicating that the anti-inflammatory features of CBD do work well in reducing joint pain and generally improving the quality of life for dogs with arthritis.
Other than its analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, hemp oil may have more benefits for the health of dogs, such as producing feelings of calmness, relaxation, reducing anxiety, and improving sleep. So, all these ancillary advantages combined make a dog with arthritis feel better, making hemp oil a holistic approach for pet owners who would like to manage the symptoms of their pets in a more natural way.
Clearly, fast-growing research and folklore point to hemp oil as a real possibility in the alleviation of arthritis in dogs. Owners must, as with any treatment, consult with their veterinarian for the right dosage and to check on any drugs that may conflict with what the dog is taking.
Most dogs with arthritis will begin to look forward to remarkable improvement in their conditions, increased mobility, and improved quality of life by integrative treatment that incorporates hemp oil into their treatment regime.
Benefits of Hemp Oil to Dogs With Arthritis
Pain Relief: The painful sensation in dogs suffering from arthritis has made researchers examine the ability of CBD oil in pain reduction. Cornell University research showed it reduced pain suffering in dogs suffering from osteoarthritis and increased their activities after they were treated with CBD oil at a dosage of 2mg per kilogram body weight, twice daily. Over 80% of the test subjects used in the study showed remarkable improvement without any reported side effects.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Inflammation is one of the major reasons for the development of arthritis pain. Pretty well known are the anti-inflammatory effects of CBD. This will reduce the amount of inflammation by interacting with the ECS receptors, potentially helping in the prevention of nerve damages originating from chronic inflammation. That does not only ease the pain but slows down the progress of arthritis.
Improved Mobility: Taking care of pain and inflammation, CBD oil might enhance a dog’s mobility. In Frontiers in Veterinary Science, it was reported that dogs with osteoarthritis indicated an increase in the levels of their activities after being treated with CBD oil twice a day. Improved mobility can make a huge difference in the quality of life for a dog by just doing what they enjoy.
Minimal Side Effects: In contrast to many well recognized and traditionally employed analgesic pain medications, hemp oil has relatively fewer and less serious side effects. Even though NSAIDs and opioids can cause gastrointestinal problems, damage the liver, and even lead to overdoes, CBD oil is normally tolerated. While some minor side effects may include drowsiness or dry mouth, these are otherwise manageable and less harmful than those associated with conventional medications.
Additional Health Benefits: Except for the management of pain and inflammation, hemp oil may have some other benefits for aging dogs with various age-related conditions. It was found to reduce anxiety, improve sleep, and promote a calmer demeanour—all contributing factors toward general wellbeing.
Dosage and Administration
The correct dosage of Hemp Oil For Dogs would depend on a few factors—the weight and age of the dog, and the intensity of the various symptoms associated with arthritis. Vets mostly suggest starting off with a small initial dose and gradually increasing until desirable effects are seen. This must be regular since supplementation is required continuously if the symptoms are to be alleviated continuously.
The oil can be given directly under the tongue of a dog for quicker absorption or added to their food. Treats and topicals are also available, so with the diverse ways of administration, it is quite self-explanatory that owners have options for what will work best according to their preference and their dogs’ needs.
Quality Hemp Oil—Things to Consider
The following should be considered in choosing a hemp oil supplement:
1. Third-Party Testing: The product should have an independent lab test for purity and potency.
2. CO2 Extraction Method: This will yield the purest form of CBD oil, with no harmful solvents added.
3. Organic and Non-GMO: Quality hemp oil needs to contain no pesticides, no herbicides, and absolutely no genetically modified organisms.
Deep Research Studies
There are a great number of research studies about using hemp oil in the management of arthritis in dogs:
Cornell University Study: This was an essential study whereby dogs that had osteoarthritis received 2 mg of CBD per kilogram of body weight, twice daily. It showed that the group demonstrated a significant improvement in pain reduction and mobility. The double-blind and placebo-controlled study further showed that more than 80% of the dogs experienced improved comfort and activity levels without any adverse effects.
Colorado State University Research: Epidiolex trials for the study of CBD’s potential to treat epilepsy and similar seizure disorders are under way at CSU. Preliminary results show that, with traditional anti-seizure medications, it cut both the frequency and severity of seizures. This study itself is not specifically connected with arthritis but is part of the accompanying potential benefits that CBD seems to hold in dog health.
Frontiers in Veterinary Science Research: This research showed that the administration of CBD oil to dogs with osteoarthritis improved their mobility. Dogs administered 2 mg CBD/kg BW twice daily revealed a considerable increase in the capacity regarding physical activities; owners reported less pain and a higher degree of activities conducted.
ElleVet Sciences Study—This was performed in association with Cornell University and focused on the pharmacokinetics of CBD and CBDA in dogs. Results returned that the combination of CBD with other compounds, such as glucosamine and chondroitin, showed remarkable improvement of mobility and comfort in dogs with multi-joint issues.
Tips and Practical Considerations
Consult Your Veterinarian: Consult your veterinarian before using any hemp oil in your dog. This is very necessary if your dog uses other medications or has an underlying health condition.
Monitor for Side Effects: With general safety assured from hemp oil, monitor your dog’s possibility of side effects like drowsiness, dry mouth, or changes in appetite. Adjust dosage accordingly and under the guidance of a veterinarian.
Consistency Is Key: For best results, administer hemp oil consistently. It can take some time to find any kind of improvement at all with these products, so patience and regular use are extremely important.
Choose the Right Product: Hemp oils are all different. Seek out top-grade, organic hemp-based products that have undergone third-party testing to prove freedom from contaminants and proclaimed CBD content.
Conclusion
Hemp oil presents as an interesting natural alternative in the management of arthritis in dogs. In addition to relieving pain and reducing inflammation, it has very few side effects, so it’s a very important consideration of options for most owners of pets who need to enhance the quality of life for their dogs. Always consult with a veterinarian before engaging in a new treatment course to ensure that it would be appropriate for your pet’s health needs.
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