Dogs are said to be mans’ best friend. They walk beside us during our every day life and are our loyal companions. Our dogs physical health and well being are our top priority. But, what about their mental health? Are the modern day dogs facing stress and anxiety as much as humans and if so ,what can we do about this?
Perhaps you are already trying Cannabidiol (CBD) for your general well being. As CBD is said to help balance out our moods, de-stress us and lower our anxiety, it’s no wonder many people are now trying out the newest trend.
With self-care really coming into it’s own and becoming a top priority for many people, is it time we turn this care on to our furry little friends?
Can dogs really be anxious?
It is said by health care professionals that yes, many dogs suffer from anxiety and stress disorders, just like their human counterparts. The majority of dogs anxiety is said to be caused by separation from their mother at birth. It is estimated that 14 percent of dogs suffer from separation anxiety, which in turn can make them nervous, unsettled or even aggressive towards other dogs and humans. Owners have gained prescriptions for Xanax, Valium and more from their vets, to help battle their pets nervous disposition. Said to have similar side effects to human use, it can leave the pets docile, lethargic or even stripped of their personality. These side effects and the worry of long term effects, has caused a shift in owners turning to CBD oils for their dogs.
Like humans, dogs also have an endocannabinoid (ECS) system throughout their bodies. If you don’t know already, an ECS is a biological system with is built up of endocannabinoids which are lipid based retrograde neurotransmitters that bind to cannabinoid receptors. These receptors are located throughout the vertebrate central nervous system and peripheral nervous system. In layman’s terms the ECS has receptors throughout which react to cannabinoids. Cannabinoids are compounds which as present in hemp and cannabis, such as CBD and THC.
CBD for the future
With this in mind, owners have seen a multitude of benefits when giving their canines CBD based products. Owners have seen their anxious dogs wellbeing improve, whilst their personality remains the same. This has lead to Willie Nelson launching his own company selling CBD products just for pets. Like dogs: cats and horses also can take CBD to combat their anxiety. The model of Willie Nelson’s CBD line is to insure our furry best friends have the proper care they deserve. “As longtime animal advocates and pet owners, our family believes that the hemp plant has benefited our own animals,” the Nelsons said in a statement. “We want you and your best friends to experience the potential benefits of hemp together.”
Finally, we recommend you consult your vet, if you are considering trying CBD products for your pet. Especially if your pet is already taking any other medication, your vet can advise whether this may be a good option and a healthier, natural alternative.
