Ruff, Ruff, Pass…. Dogs & Cannabis
Everyday after work I take my dog for a nice walk while puffing on a joint to ease our anxieties. But she won't hit the joint... I pass it and Pickles just stares at me. Is cannabis therapy ever appropriate for my dog?
Besides giving your dog CBD, think about creative activities in addition to daily walks. We set up a mini obstacle course using pillows, cushions, and household items. Guiding your dog through tunnels, over makeshift jumps, and around obstacles is great exercise and also engages their mind and body while zooming. Running the obstacle course together is the best way to share the exercise. We also like to hide treats or toys around the house to encourage the dogs to find them. This game stimulates their sense of smell and provides mental stimulation. Tug of war is my dog's favorite game to play with me or other dogs who like high energy wrestling. A friendly game of tug of war with a dog-safe rope toy can be a great way for your dog to release energy and bond with you. This is especially true with high energy dogs and can be good for dogs and owners to get some exercise while having fun together.
Investing in puzzle toys or treat-dispensing toys that require your dog to work for their treats keeps them mentally engaged. Putting peanut butter in the bottom of any container gives them a focused treat to work for and it's inexpensive to make this at home with a disposable cup or any safe container.
For active dog owners, create a mini agility course with items like broomsticks, hula hoops, and cones. Teach your dog to weave through, jump over, and navigate the course by running it with them. You likely already know if you have a breed appropriate for this type of activity together. Adjust the activities to ensure their enjoyment and always use positive reinforcement to reward their efforts.
Okay so back to cannabis and my dogs. Can my dog use cannabis therapy? Are CBD cannabis products safe for my dog for anxiety when it's thundering? What other cannabinoids might help our pets?
It's important to consult with a veterinarian before giving your dog any CBD containing products, as the appropriate dosage and suitability can vary based on your dog's size, breed, and individual health needs. However, beyond that disclaimer, the answer is YES, there are CBD and even other cannabinoid products that are used for pets in specific situations.
Some pet owners use CBD oil in tincture form to help dogs with anxiety during thunderstorms, fireworks, or other stressful situations. It may have a calming effect. CBD-infused treats are available for dogs, which can be a convenient way to administer CBD in a tasty form. These come in natural formulas usually made with a vase sweet potato, peanut butter and other wholesome ingredients. CBN is another cannabinoid that some people use for its potential sedative effects. It might help with relaxation, but research is limited, and products should be considered by a vet first. CBG is being researched for its potential anti-anxiety properties, but it's not as commonly used as CBD. Ensure that any product you consider for your dog is THC-free, as THC can be toxic to pets and cause adverse effects.
Here are some reputable brands that carry pet focused CBD products:
Honest Paws offers a variety of CBD products for dogs, including oils, treats, and soft chews.
Charlotte's Web offers a line of CBD products, including oils, balms, and chews, specifically formulated for dogs.
Medterra provides CBD tinctures and chews designed for pets, including dogs. cbdMD has a range of pet-focused CBD products, such as CBD oil tinctures and chews.
Joy Organics offers organic, broad-spectrum CBD tinctures and treats for dogs. HolistaPet specializes in CBD products for pets and offers various options, including capsules, oils, and treats.
Paw Puddy by Hempful Farms makes treats and formulas available by mail order and locally in Phoenix, Arizona. Chef and founder Chris Martin has a passion for creating quality CBD therapy products for humans and pets.
Also available online for cannabis enthusiast pets are relaxing cannabis themed dog toys from our friends at Puff Palz. Puff Palz makes toys called the Doggie Doob, Tug & Toke and a Hippie Hammer, all detailed tough chew toys made to look like cannabis pipes and bongs. Check them out at www.puffpalz.com