Can your dog help to destigmatize and legitimize marijuana?

     Well, your dog can probably do anything because they’re basically tiny, furry superheroes. But also, the usage of CBD oil for dogs has been trending upwards recently.

     Firstly, a major reason why CBD oil is starting to be used more and more for dogs is because it doesn’t damage the liver, kidney, or GI tract. The dogs aren’t high or sedated (but they could experience some drowsiness). It doesn’t have potential life threatening side effects (in proper doses), whereas, similar to humans, pharmaceutical meds do (https://m.petmd.com/dog/general-health/cannabis-oil-dogs-everything-you-need-know).

     What can CBD oil do for your pup?

     It can treat seizures, nausea, stress, anxiety, arthritis, back pain, cancer, gastrointestinal issues, as well as numerous other issues. Once again, very similar to humans, many of the benefits are applicable to dogs as well.

     The research on the effects and benefits for dogs is still fairly sparse though. There is a fair amount of anecdotal evidence, and research is increasing. But always make sure to check with your vet first before ever trying to give any CBD oil to your pet, follow the dosing instructions precisely, and make sure the dog gets regular checkups and blood work done so as to ensure it’s being benefitted and not harmed.

     One of the couples in my apartment complex has a young dog that barks and cries all day long whenever they’re not home. It has severe separation anxiety. I’ve known of other people that have been prescribed anxiety medication for their dogs. Not to sound like a broken record, but similar to humans, traditional pharmaceutical anxiety meds can have numerous, uncomfortable (or even dangerous) side effects. I don’t understand the point in making someone (or in this case, some pets) suffer and be uncomfortable just to try and help them to not suffer or be uncomfortable. Sometimes the side effects of anxiety meds are so severe, that they cause more or new anxiety. That’s like trying to put out a fire by throwing a box of matches at it.

     Many dogs can and will suffer arthritis at some point in their life. Also, depending on the size or breed of dog, they could have inherent joint and muscle issues. The anti-inflammatory and pain-fighting abilities of CBD can help these dogs live a longer, and much more comfortable life.

     Older dogs can develop cancer, which leads to a lot of suffering. CBD can help alleviate some of the symptoms as well as possibly lessen the effects of the cancer itself.

     Even though most dogs will eat almost anything, it’s not always good for them. Some can also have any variety of gastrointestinal issues. Certain foods can make their stomach upset. And, depending if they’re on other meds, sometimes their appetite can be affected. CBD can help to calm their stomachs as well as stimulate their appetite.

     Fireworks cause anxiety for many a dog. And people love to blow shit up in the sky. So, just like with separation anxiety, CBD could help with other forms of anxiety (fireworks and thunderstorms, for example).      (https://www.google.ca/amp/s/www.huffpost.com/entry/can-pet-cbd-calm-your-dogs-anxiety-during-fourth-of-july-fireworks_l_5d1384c6e4b0e45560360b5a/amp)

     What known possible side effects are there (https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/cbd-oil-dogs/)?

     Like I mentioned, they could experience some more drowsiness. They could also get cotton-mouth (dry mouth). So they might drink a lot more water, which means you’ll probably need to take them out for more walks (but that means more exercise for the both of you, so it’s a plus). But make sure they always have water available so as to never risk any possible dehydration. And there’s the possibility of briefly lowered blood pressure. CBD has been known to temporarily lower blood pressure, which can sometimes lead to lightheadedness. So always make sure you keep an eye on your dog initially if you give it CBD oil. You’ll want to be around so you know how it does or doesn’t affect them. Once you know all the effects, then using it while you’re away for the ones with separation anxiety should be possible.

     How does this help the legitimacy of marijuana? People love their pets. People’s dogs are like children to them. They’ll do whatever they can to help their puppers and to give them a good life. If/when people accept CBD as viable medicine for their fur babies, they’ll be more eager to accept it overall. If it’s good enough for your pet, then it’s good enough for you, your friends, your family.