Hemp Oil for Dogs
With states steadily legalizing marijuana each year, the popularity of cannabidiol (CBD) oil is exploding. And when human health trends become popular, they spill over into the pet industry. People are striving to live longer, and naturally they want their pets to live longer too.
Today, hemp CBD oil for dogs is a popular health item in the pet industry. With promises of reduced anxiety, decrease in seizures, pain relief and anti-inflammatory benefits, it’s hard to ignore the benefits of hemp oil for dogs. But does it work? Which hemp oil brand works best?
While studies haven’t caught up with the hemp oil craze yet, many pet owners are seeing positive results.
Why is Hemp Oil So Popular Now?
In an effort to tap into the cannabis popularity craze, many companies are tapping into hemp CBD oil. Because marijuana is not legalized in all states, companies are touting the effects of hemp oil, which is a variety of cannabis and made from hemp seeds. Hemp has been grown for hundreds of years, yet hemp oil benefits are finally gaining recognition due to the recent cannabis craze.
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Hemp Oil vs. Cannabis Oil
Somehow, hemp oil and cannabis oil are used interchangeably, which causes consumer confusion. Hemp oil is different than cannabis oil (marijuana). Hemp oil contains tiny traces of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is a psychoactive property. Cannabis oil, on the other hand, contains large doses of THC. This oil is made from flowers, leaves and hemp stalks of the marijuana plant, contributing to its high THC level (Hemp Oil Vs CBC Oil, 2014).
It’s important to note that cannabis oil is illegal in most states. While there are wild claims about CBD oils, it’s always best to partner with a qualified holistic veterinarian on which oil works best for your dog.
Benefits of Hemp Oil for Dogs
Hemp oil has found a firm spot within the pet industry due to its nutritional value. Hemp oil is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, omega-6 fatty acids, protein and antioxidants. While it’s tempting to replace fish oil with hemp oil, both fats work very well together and provide a powerful punch against inflammation.
Testimonials from numerous pet owners claim hemp oil has reduced pain in canine cancer patients, decreased their dogs’ seizure episodes and reduced anxiety in dogs. Adding hemp oil to your dog’s diet is definitely something to think about, so ask your veterinarian first.
Choosing a Hemp Oil
As with any supplement, ensure the product you choose is tested by independent labs for potency. Searching for hemp oil online is daunting. Consumers are bombarded with hemp and cannabis oils claiming miracles and low prices. How to choose the best hemp oil for dogs? Ask your holistic veterinarian for hemp oil brand recommendations. My holistic veterinarian recommends Hemp RX, which is made from the entire hemp plant and produced by RX Vitamins for Pets.
Both of my dogs have been taking hemp oil for the past 9 months now, and their coats and eyes gleam. Hemp RX is only available through veterinarians, and it’s quite expensive at $95 per bottle.
Within the dog training world, Treatibles treats and oils are highly recommended by veterinary behaviorists. Treatibles infuses CBD and hemp oil into yummy treats. They recently expanded their line to include hemp oils too. Check out their website, grab a tissue and scroll through their numerous testimonials.
Giving Hemp Oil to Dogs
Hemp oil dosage varies, depending on a dog’s body weight and hemp oil brand. When in doubt, start low. Most hemp oil brands recommend 0.5 – 1mg of hemp oil per 10 pounds of body weight. Our holistic veterinarian recommended a higher dosage than most brands; however, our dogs are under the care of a veterinarian. When in doubt, seek medical advice if lower doses aren’t benefiting your dog.
Feeding dogs hemp oil is pretty easy. Give your dog hemp oil-infused treats or sprinkle drops of hemp oil on top of your dog’s meals every day.
