Cannabidiol, or CBD, is quickly becoming one of the most talked about natural compounds in veterinary medicine. In addition to being a popular topic for pet owners and other regular users, this has been both a boon and a bane for veterinarians as well.
The good news is cannabidiol has many potential benefits for animals; the bad news is those benefits are largely restricted to specific breeds with high levels of genetic predisposition such as dogs and cats. As more people recognize this and demand that veterinarians offer it to their patients, the number of clinics offering it is increasing at an increasingly rapid pace.
While some veterinarians may already be familiar with CBD from its use in human medicine, there are many ways they can benefit through practice management software integration as well as through direct patient care. Let’s take a look at how incorporating CBD into your practice management system can help you reach more patients while also reducing overhead costs.
The medical benefits of cannabidiol (CBD) are quickly expanding, and it’s not just because more people are becoming aware of them. The growing popularity of cannabidiol as an extracted oil with many uses has led to a wide range of scientific research on this compound in recent years.
Some studies have even pointed to the non-intoxicating cannabinoid as having therapeutic properties for some illnesses. Now that so much is known about the benefits of CBD, here’s how veterinarians can benefit from learning more about it.
Pain Relief
Long-term pain is a significant source of morbidity in animals. CBD has been shown in multiple studies to have anti-inflammatory and anti-hyperalgesic properties. CBD has also been shown to reduce chronic inflammation in a number of other conditions.
The mechanism of action for CBD’s anti-inflammatory effects are believed to be due to its inhibition of adenosine receptors in the central nervous system. In other words, it’s believed CBD can help reduce pain by blocking receptors that may be responsible for causing it.
Anxiety Relief
CBD has been shown to be effective at reducing the anxiolytic effects of THC. It can also reduce anxiety by reducing oxidative stress, improving hippocampus function, reducing inflammation in the brain, and assisting with endocannabinoid signaling.
Many medications for anxiety can lead to dependency and have a number of side effects. CBD can potentially be an alternative for your pet as it does not have the same side effects as many of these medications with fewer contraindications.
Neuroprotective Properties
The compounds found in CBD have demonstrated neuroprotective properties, helping to reduce the effects of inflammation and oxidative damage in the central nervous system. It may be useful in the treatment of diseases of the central nervous system including epilepsy, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and more.
It is also being studied for its potential as a preventive for brain injury and degenerative diseases such as Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Huntington’s, and more.
Sleep Aid
CBD has been studied for its potential to assist with sleep. It may be useful in the treatment of insomnia, restlessness, and reducing anxiety. You may want to try mixing a teaspoon of CBD oil in your dog’s food daily.
It may also be best to administer CBD oil orally as some studies have shown that it can be ineffective when administered intravenously. It’s also worth noting that some animals may not be able to utilize the therapeutic effects of CBD properly. If you are interested in exploring the use of CBD for sleep, consult with your veterinarian.
Other Benefits
Studies have also looked at the potential for CBD to reduce inflammation, treat cancer, and prevent oxidative damage. CBD can be used to help reduce nerve pain in dogs with diabetes, arthritis, and other nerve-related pain. CBD can also be useful for dogs with anxiety, and it may have a beneficial effect on behavior and cognition.
Evidence is also showing that it can be useful for treating cognitive dysfunction in older dogs with age-related diseases. CBD can be beneficial for dogs with various other conditions including epilepsy, nausea, and epilepsy. It can also help with issues of inflammation, pain, and more.
Should You Care About CBD in Your Dog?
This is a question that many people are asking as awareness of and research into CBD increases. While it’s clear that CBD is safe for use in dogs and can benefit them, it’s not yet clear whether CBD should be used regularly or how much to give your pet.
Given that CBD side effects are mild and infrequent, it’s probably safe to use it as a treat or supplement, but it’s worth consulting with your veterinarian before giving it regularly to your pet.
Summary
CBD is a compound found in the cannabis plant. A dog can benefit from CBD, but it’s not yet clear whether it should be used regularly or as a supplement. CBD side effects are mild and infrequent, but it’s worth consulting with your veterinarian before giving it regularly to your pet.
CBD has been shown to be effective at reducing pain, anxiety, neuroprotective properties, and more. It can also help with sleep, reduce inflammation, and assist with endocannabinoid signaling, among other potential benefits.
