The Endocannabinoid System in puppies
Cannabinoids like THC and CBD affect the
endocannabinoid system (ECS), which all
mammals (including puppies) have.
The ECS plays regulatory roles in many body
functions, such as in the body’s immune and
central nervous systems.
Recent research indicates that the
endocannabinoid system plays a role in
memory, appetite regulation, anxiety,
immune function and inflammation.
The remedial potential of CBD is of particular
interest to the medical community — even the
World Health Organization thinks it shouldn’t
be a scheduled substance.. CBD acts on the
CB1 and CB2 receptors and provides a variety
of anti-inflammatory, anti-epileptic, anti-
anxiety and analgesic effects without the
signature intoxication associated with THC.
Veterinary research turns to cannabinoids
Increasingly, consumers and the medical
community are turning their eyes toward
CBD in veterinary medicine.
While
most
information
regarding
cannabinoids’ effects on animals comes from
pre-clinical testing on laboratory rodents,
these studies and those touching on larger
mammals show promising evidence.
A December 2017 study published in the
journal Vet J concluded that the introduction
of cannabinoid analogy showed significant
anti-inflammatory and analgesic activity and
represent an advantageous therapeutic
approach in veterinary medicine.
Another area of research examines
cannabinoids’ potential in dermatological
remedies: another study in 2001 showed a
significant reduction in histamines induced by
anti-canine IgE when treated with
cannabinoid analogy.
Cannabinoids also show potential in
oncological care to encourage eating habits in
canines with cancer.
A market for pet cannabis products
As the cannabis industry expands,
more companies are creating
cannabinoid options for suffering
pups.
CBD tinctures and infused dog treats
of all shapes and dosages, made with
pet-safe oils and often lab tested for
quality assurance are readily available
in the retail cannabis market.
Consumer reviews of these products
share stories as to how CBD affected
their pet. Veterinarians are also
petitioning to state and federal
medical boards for further veterinary cannabis
research.