By Sari Reis

Does your dog or cat suffer with any of the following conditions or diseases: arthritis, cancer, degenerative joint disease, chronic pain, poor appetite, seizures, inflammation, anxiety, sleeplessness, and G.I. upsets? If so, then CBD (cannabidiol) oil may be a wonderful supplement to help reduce symptoms and improve your pet’s quality of life.

Tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, is the ingredient in cannabis that creates the “high.” CBD oil, which is extracted from industrial hemp, contains less than .3 percent of THC, and is therefore non-psychotropic. CBD is now approved in all 50 states for human and animal use. The reason being is that it is safe, effective, natural and has very few side effects. A research study from 2016, based on a survey of 631 pet owners, reported by the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association, stated the most prevalent side effects of CBD use were sedation at 19 percent, and overactive appetite at 5 percent. CBD is safe and effective, even in high doses and over extended periods of time.There is, however, a warning. CBD intake can increase the activity of liver enzymes used to metabolize many prescription drugs. If your dog or cat is on a prescription, be sure to check with your holistic veterinarian before using it.The results of the study also indicated mild to significant impact on symptom reduction from pain, anxiety, inflammation, seizures, etc. Unfortunately, there is not a significant amount of empirical evidence on the effectiveness of CBD, but the anecdotal evidence is overwhelming, and as a result, more research studies are currently being conducted.One of my own clients, whose dog has cancer, saw a huge reduction in the size of the tumor since using CBD oil. Dexter’s Deli, a local boutique-style pet product provider that sells CBD oil, stated in a publication on Aug. 16, 2018, “Research is in and CBD for dogs and cats is having some life-changing benefits”.

Dr. Rob Silver, a holistic veterinarian, is a big supporter of the use of CBD for his patients. You can learn more on his website, wellpetdispensary.com. Click on “Cannabis for Pets.” Another website with excellent information on the use of CBD for pets is Dogs Naturally. The site provides a free downloadable “CBD Oil Buyer’s Guide.”

All the proponents of CBD for pets agree on several things. Do your research before purchasing or using CBD. Not all products are created equal. Look for transparency. Ask for a certificate of analysis by a third party independent laboratory. Buy 100 percent organic industrial hemp. Check out where the product is being sourced and manufactured. The best extraction method is CO2 extraction, so look for companies that use this method. It assures purity. Avoid products made with solvents. For maximum absorbability, look for products infused with coconut oil. Using a tincture, as opposed to other delivery options, gives you the best control for dosing. Always start with a low dose and increase as needed.

Due diligence is the key here, but if you find a product that meets all of the important criteria, CBD oil can be highly effective giving your pet healthy, pain-free years with you.

—Sari Reis is a Certified Humane Education Specialist and the owner of Mission Valley Pet Sitting Services. For more information, please contact her at 760-644-0289 or missionvalleypetsitting.com.