The positive effect that CBD can have on animals

How treating our dog with CDB has helped improved his welfare, energy, and life expectancy. A guest article written by Susanne F. 

To begin this article I want to clarify two important points: 

What Is CBD Oil?

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a compound found in cannabis and hemp. The oil does not contain THC, the compound that gives marijuana its psychoactive properties. Most of the CBD products are derived fromhemp and not from marijuana.

How Does CBD Affect Dogs?

Before jumping into the article I would like to note that I am not a consumer of Cannabis or THC but I do believe in the healing power of the hemp plant and its derivatives. In the following article, I will share my own personal experience with using CBD oil to treat animals as I hope it inspires others to try and relieve pain from animals that are suffering. 

Our family dog "Sina" is a Podenco mongrel dog that I picked up severely injured on the side of the road in a suburb of Barcelona. She had been hit by a car and therefore needed surgery at a veterinary hospital. At that time, the vets estimated her age at about 1 year. In the meantime, she has been living with us for 14 years and despite her old age she is still quite fit. For several years I have changed the diet for her and cook the dog food (based on rice, potatoes, vegetables, and organic meat) fresh myself, because in the industrial dog food but unfortunately a lot of waste products such as toenails, beak, etc. are included). 

Two years ago in winter she had an acute arthritis episode and could no longer walk with the hind legs. At the veterinary hospital, they gave us strong painkillers for her, from which she was completely woozy. Her blood values were very good, so it was not an issue to euthanize her. Desperate, we searched for alternative pain treatment. I bought her an electric heating pad, as the vet advised us to warm her muscles before going for a walk, and for the night she got pyjama, as the blanket was not enough and she often covered herself. After this, we started to give her CBD drops.

I myself had been taking them for some time for sleep disorders and had achieved very positive effects. In the beginning, we gave 1-2 drops (10% Full Spectrum) once a day in her food. In case of acute pain, she got an extra portion on a piece of sausage. After a short time, we were able to stop the strong pain pills. Her musculoskeletal system began to function again and the stiffness of her limbs became much better. 

Sina had always been a dog with little appetite. Since we started giving her CBD drops, she always eats everything and has a healthy hunger. Once I forgot about the drops, I noticed a marked deterioration in her walking.  For the past year, she has also had mild signs of Parkinson's, as soon as she starts shaking she gets an extra dose, and the improvement in symptoms is noticeable very quickly. I am always amazed at how well she is doing with this treatment. I hope we can enjoy living with her for a few more years!

After the success I have seen with Sina I have been recommending CBD Oil to everyone in my network who experiences similar challenges with their dogs, especially once they come to an older age. The feedback has always been positive and so far no one has reported any negative impressions. 

This article is provided by our guest author Susanne F. a Social educator and graduate in social pedagogy. Who has been assisting and accompanying children and adolescents with special needs with the use of therapeutic animals like Dogs and Horses. Susanne always is active in Animal Rights has found new homes for more than 50 animals in Spain and Germany. 

Please note that this article is based on personal experience and has not a scientific basis. Before using any treatments that are related to Cannabis make sure to do your research and consult with an expert.